“My dear Lavinia, when I feel the need of greater happiness, I most undoubtedly shall. At present I am quite content.”

“You are unkind!” she protested. “And you sneer at me.”

“Pray, accept my heartfelt apologies! You shall come to Andover if the worthy Richard permits.”

Her face cleared as by magic.

“Oh, Tracy! Oh, I am so desirous to be gay once more! I cannot even receive now, on account of this mourning! But when I am at Andover⁠—oh, we will not worry over anything, and I can be bad-tempered without feeling that someone is being hurt by me! Oh, come to Dicky at once⁠—at once!”

He rose leisurely.

“I can imagine that you try Richard’s patience somewhat,” he remarked. “Happily, your impetuosity in no way disturbs me. We will go in search of Richard.”