Eton College,'--


"'See how all around us wait
The ministers of human fate,
And black Misfortune's baleful train.'


"Meanwhile it is something to enjoy the present. We are young; we are
listening to music; there is no cloud over the summer stars; our
conscience is clear; our hearts untroubled: why look forward in search
of happiness? shall we ever be happier than we are at this moment?"

Here Mr. Travers came up. "We are going to supper in a few minutes,"
said he; "and before we lose sight of each other, Mr. Chillingly, I
wish to impress on you the moral fact that one good turn deserves
another. I have yielded to your wish, and now you must yield to mine.
Come and stay a few days with me, and see your benevolent intentions
carried out."

Kenelm paused. Now that he was discovered, why should he not pass a
few days among his equals? Realities or shams might be studied with
squires no less than with farmers; besides, he had taken a liking to
Travers. That graceful /ci-devant/ Wildair, with the slight form and
the delicate face, was unlike rural squires in general. Kenelm
paused, and then said frankly,--

"I accept your invitation. Would the middle of next week suit you?"

"The sooner the better. Why not to-morrow?"