"Flo isn't gone yet," said Mr. Burton.

"But I hope, B., it's not to be a long engagement. I don't like long
engagements. It ain't good--not for the girl; it ain't, indeed."

"We were engaged for seven years."

"People weren't so much in a hurry then at anything; but I ain't sure it
was very good for me. And though we weren't just married, we were living
next door and saw each other. What'll come to Flo if she's to be here
and he's to be up in London, pleasuring himself?"

"Flo must bear it as other girls do," said the father, as he got up from
his chair.

"I think he's a good young man; I think he is," said the mother. "But
don't stand out for too much for 'em to begin upon. What matters? Sure,
if they were to be a little short you could help 'em." To such a
suggestion as this Mr. Burton thought it as well to make no answer, but
with ponderous steps descended to his office.

"Well, Harry," said Mr. Burton, "so you're to be off in the morning?"

"Yes, sir; I shall breakfast at home to-morrow."

"Ah--when I was your age, I always used to make an early start. Three
hours before breakfast never does any hurt. But it shouldn't be more
than that. The wind gets into the stomach." Harry had no remark to make
on this, and waited, therefore, till Mr. Burton went on. "And you'll be
up in London by the 10th of next month?"