won't have twopence between them;" but she could only reply,--

"Well, Mrs. Leigh, what do you say? Will you trust yourself to Mr.
Vavasour?"

"I'm sure," said the little lady, flutteringly, "the gentleman is most
kind; but I am so timid with horses unless they are quite old. Does your
horse kick, sir?"

"Only if the rein gets under her tail."

"Ah, I should be sure to scream and snatch it--the reins, I mean, and
they say that isn't safe driving. I had better walk; and yet it is
getting dark, and I shall miss the car. What _shall_ I do, Colonel
Rolleston?"

"Drive, to be sure," said he, who wanted to get rid of them both.
"Vavasour only upsets when he gives the reins to young ladies," with
a glance at Bluebell.

"Well, I _should_ like a ride in a sleigh, if my poor nerves will let me
enjoy it," toddling to the door with Colonel Rolleston.

"I'll take the greatest care of you, Mrs. Leigh," said Jack, heartily,
grateful for a re-assuring nod from Bluebell in recognition of his
contrite gallantry. The mare, tired of waiting, became fidgety to be off.

"Oh, he is going to prance. Have you got good hold of his head, sir?" to
the groom.