"I never enjoyed a walk so much in my life!" he exclaimed, with a sudden
outburst of enthusiasm. "I hope Miss Bygrave feels all the better, for
it. Do you go out at the same time to-morrow morning? May I join you
again?"
"By all means, Mr. Vanstone," said the Captain, cordially. "Excuse me
for returning to the subject--but what do you propose saying to Mrs.
Lecount?"
"I don't know. Lecount is a perfect nuisance! What would you do, Mr.
Bygrave, if you were in my place?"
"Allow me to ask a question, my dear sir, before I tell you. What is
your breakfast-hour?"
"Half-past nine."
"Is Mrs. Lecount an early riser?"
"No. Lecount is lazy in the morning. I hate lazy women! If you were in
my place, what should you say to her?"
"I should say nothing," replied Captain Wragge. "I should return at once
by the back way; I should let Mrs. Lecount see me in the front garden
as if I was taking a turn before breakfast; and I should leave her to
suppose that I was only just out of my room. If she asks you whether you
mean to come here today, say No. Secure a quiet life until circumstances
force you to give her an answer. Then tell the plain truth--say that Mr.
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