ot psha! Half-hours between young ladies and young
gentlemen before breakfast are very serious things."

"And I mean to be serious," said Augustus.

"But I don't," said Sophia.

"I am to understand then that under no possible circumstances--"

"Bless me, Mr. Staveley, how solemn you are."

"There are occasions in a man's life when he is bound to be solemn.
You are going away from us, Miss Furnival--"

"One would think I was going to Jeddo, whereas I am going to Harley
Street."

"And I may come and see you there!"

"Of course you may if you like it. According to the usages of the
world you would be reckoned very uncivil if you did not. For myself I
do not much care about such usages, and therefore if you omit it I
will forgive you."

"Very well; then I will say good-night,--and good-bye." These last
words he uttered in a strain which should have melted her heart, and
as he took leave of her he squeezed her hand with an affection that
was almost painful.

It may be remarked that if Augustus Staveley was quite in earnest
with Sophia Furnival, he would have asked her that all-important
question in a straightforward manner as Peregrine Orme had asked it
of Madeline. Perhaps Miss Furnival was aware of this, and, being so
aware, considered that a serious half-hour before breakfast might not
as yet be safe. If he were really in love he would find his way to
Harley Street. On the whole I am inclined to think that Miss Furnival
did understand her business.

On the following morning Miss Furnival went her way without any
further scenes of tenderness, and Lady Staveley was thoroughly glad
that she was gone. "A nasty, sly thing," she said to Baker. "Sly
enough, my lady," said Baker; "but our Mr. Augustus will be one too
many for her. Deary me, to think of her having the imperance to think
of him." In all which Miss Furnival was I think somewhat ill used.
If young gentlemen, such as Augustus Staveley, are allowed to amuse
themselves with young ladies, surely young ladies such as Miss
Furnival should be allowed to play their own cards accordingly.

On that day, early in the morning, Felix Graham sought and obtained
an interview with his host in the judge's own study. "I have come
about two things," he said, taking the easy chair to which he was
invited.

"Two or ten, I shall be very happy," said the judge cheerily.

"I will take business first," said Graham.

"And then pleasure will be the sweeter afterwards," said