PRENDERGAST like this, in the Museum with her all the morning, and on
the lake again this afternoon,--it won't _do_, you know!

_Culch._ If she happens to prefer my society to yours and her
brother's, I presume you have no claim to interfere.

_Podb._ I don't know about that. How about Miss TROTTER?

_Culch._ If I remember rightly, you yourself were not insensible to
Miss TROTTER's--er--attractions?

_Podb._ Perhaps not; but I am not engaged to her--you _are_. You told
me so in the train.

_Culch._ You entirely misunderstood me. There was no definite
understanding between us--nothing of the sort or kind. In fact, it was
merely a passing caprice. Since I have had the privilege of knowing
Miss PRENDERGAST, I see clearly--

_Podb._ Then you mean to propose to her, eh?

_Culch._ That is certainly my intention; have you any objection to
offer?

_Podb._ Only that I mean to propose too. I daresay my chances are as
good as yours--even now.

_Culch._ I doubt it, my dear fellow; however, don't let _me_
discourage you.