So the conversation went on all the evening, to the great delight of
all. It was more about things than people, though Flora inquired
after Mr. Ernescliffe, and was told he had met them at the station,
had been everywhere with them, and had dined at the Mackenzies' each
day. "How was he looking?" Ethel asked; and was told pretty much the
same as when he went away; and, on a further query from Flora, it
appeared that an old naval friend of his father's had hopes of a
ship, and had promised to have him with him, and thereupon warm hopes
were expressed that Harry might have a berth in the same.

"And when is he coming here again, papa?" said Ethel.

"Eh! oh! I can't tell. I say, isn't it high time to ring?"

When they went up at night, every one felt that half the say had not
been said, and there were fresh beginnings on the stairs. Norman
triumphantly gave the key to Richard, and then called to Ethel, "I
say, won't you come into my room while I unpack?"

"Oh, yes, I should like it very much."

Ethel sat on the bed, rolled up in a cloak, while Norman undid his
bag, announcing at the same time, "Well, Ethel, papa says I may get
to my Euripides to-morrow, if I please, and only work an hour at a
time!"

"Oh, I am so glad. Then he thinks you quite well?"

"Yes, I am quite well. I hope I've done with nonsense."