"But you have given her presents, my darling boy; yes, and written to
her," urged the poor lady, clinging to the last straw.

"I have given her chocolates, and a couple of pairs of gloves, and
answered her notes; and if Cossie imagines that every man who gives her
chocolates, and answers notes about tea and tennis, is seriously in
love with her, she must be incredibly foolish. Cossie knows in her
heart that I have never cast her a thought, except as a relation; and,
as a matter of fact, of the two girls I like Delia the best! I don't
want to say unpleasant things when I'm on the point of going
away--probably for years. I hoped to have spent a jolly long day among
you, but from what you have just told me I really could not face it,
and I must ask you to say good-bye to my cousins for me. I will write
to you, Aunt Emma, as soon as I get out to Rangoon. You have always
been very kind, and made me feel at home here; you may be sure I won't
forget it." And he stooped down suddenly and gave her a hearty kiss.
Then before the poor stout lady could struggle out of the cavity which
her weight had made in the Chesterfield Douglas had departed. She
heard the close of the hall door, immediately followed by the click of
the garden gate. Yes, he was _gone_! And Cossie, who all the time had
been listening on the top of the stairs, instantly descended like a
wolf on the fold. She would have run out bareheaded after Douglas, but
that her more prudent sister actually restrained her by violent
physical force; and then, what a scene she made! Oh, what
recriminations and angry speeches and reproaches she showered upon her
unhappy parent!

"You told me to sound him about an engagement, and I did. Oh, but it
was a hateful job, and here's my thanks!" whimpered Mrs. Larcher. "He
looked awfully white and stern, and said he only likes you as a cousin,