the moment was something about ancient lights which did not seem
appropriate. Therefore, as she thought that she had done enough for
honour, and to remind her awe-inspiring relative that he could not
suppress her, suddenly she changed the subject.

"You are looking very well, uncle," she said, surveying him calmly;
"and younger than you did last year. How is my cousin Morris? Will the
aerophone talk yet?"

"Be careful," said the Colonel, gallantly. "If even my grey hairs can
provoke a compliment, what homage is sufficient for a Sleeping Beauty?
As for Morris, he is, I believe, much as usual; at least he stood this
morning till daybreak staring at the sea. I understand, however--if he
doesn't forget to come--that you are to have the pleasure of seeing him
this evening, when you will be able to judge for yourself."

"Now, don't be sarcastic about Morris, uncle; I'd rather you went on
abusing dad's window."

"Certainly not, my dear, if it displeases you. But may I ask why he is
to be considered sacred?"

"Why?" she answered, and a genuine note crept into her bantering voice.
"Because he is one of the few men worth anything whom I ever chanced to
meet--except dad there and----"

"Spare me," cut in the Colonel, with admirable skill, for well he knew
that his name was not upon the lady's lips. "But would it be impertinent
to inquire what it is that constitutes Morris's preeminent excellence in
your eyes?"