evening's post, suggesting that, on Thursday before the Eights, Lady
Laura should pick her up at Medburn House, take her to tea at Falloden's
lodgings and then on to the Eights. Lady Laura was to ask for an answer
addressed to the lodgings.

He found one--a little note with a crest and monogram he knew well.

Medburn House.

"Dear Mr. Falloden,--I am very sorry I can not come to tea
to-morrow. But my aunt and cousins seem to have made an
engagement for me. No doubt I shall see Lady Laura at the
boats. My aunt thanks her for her kind letter.

"Yours very truly,

"Constance Bledlow."

Falloden bit his lip. He had reckoned on an acceptance, having done
everything that had been prescribed to him; and he felt injured. He
walked on, fuming and meditating, to Vincent's Club, and wrote a reply.

"DEAR LADY CONSTANCE,--A thousand regrets! I hope for better
luck next time. Meanwhile, as you say, we shall meet
to-morrow at the Eights. I have spent much time to-day in
trying to find you a horse, as we agreed. The mare I told you
of is really a beauty. I am going to try her to-morrow, and
will report when we meet. I admire your nepticular (I believe
_neptis_ is the Latin for niece) docility!