things. Naturally the Imp did not proceed to that extreme. He
contented himself with merely capturing the Sheriff's hat - I think
that you will agree that those 'ambushes' worked line a charm, Mr.
Selwyn?"

"Miss Elizabeth," he said, disdaining any reply, "I am aware of the
af - affection you lavish upon your nephew; I hope that you will
take measures to restrain him from such pranks - such very
disgraceful pranks - in the future. I myself should suggest a
change of companionship [here he glanced at me] as the most salutary
method. Good-afternoon, Miss Elizabeth." So saying, Mr. Selwyn
raised his hat, bowed stiffly to me, and turning upon an indignant
heel, strode haughtily away.

"Well!" exclaimed Lisbeth, with a look of very real concern.

"Very well, indeed!" I nodded; "we are alone at last."

"Oh, Dick! but to have offended him like this!"

"A highly estimable young gentleman," I said, "though deplorably
lacking in that saving sense of humour which - "

"Aunt Agatha seems to think a great deal of him."

"So I understand," I nodded.

"Only this morning I received a letter from her, in which, among
other things, she pointed out what a very excellent match h
would be."