'I am preparing a work on variable stars. There is one of these
which I have exceptionally observed for several months, and on this
my great theory is mainly based. It has been hitherto called
irregular; but I have detected a periodicity in its so-called
irregularities which, if proved, would add some very valuable facts
to those known on this subject, one of the most interesting,
perplexing, and suggestive in the whole field of astronomy. Now, to
clinch my theory, there should be a sudden variation this week,--or
at latest next week,--and I have to watch every night not to let it
pass. You see my reason for declining, Lady Constantine.'

'Young men are always so selfish!' she said.

'It might ruin the whole of my year's labour if I leave now!'
returned the youth, greatly hurt. 'Could you not wait a fortnight
longer?'

'No,--no. Don't think that I have asked you, pray. I have no wish
to inconvenience you.'

'Lady Constantine, don't be angry with me! Will you do this,--watch
the star for me while I am gone? If you are prepared to do it
effectually, I will go.'

'Will it be much trouble?'

'It will be some trouble. You would have to come here every clear
evening about nine. If the sky were not clear, then you would have
to come at four in the morning, should the clouds have dispersed.'