"No one in particular, sir. Oh yes, there was, though--I forgot. The
dean looked in, and wanted to see you."

"What did he want?"

"He did not say, sir. He told Jenkins it would do another time." Arthur
left his father and Mr. Galloway together. He did not broach the
subject that was uppermost in his heart. Gifted with rare delicacy of
feeling, he would not speak to Mr. Galloway until he could see him
alone. To prefer the request in his father's presence might have caused
Mr. Galloway more trouble in refusing it.

"I can't think what has happened to Arthur this evening!" exclaimed one
of them. "His spirits are up to fever heat. Tell us what it is,
Arthur?"

Arthur laughed. "I hope they will not be lowered to freezing point
within the next hour; that's all."

When he heard Mr. Galloway leaving, he hastened after him, and overtook
him in the Boundaries.

"I wanted to say a few words to you, sir, if you please?"

"Say on," said Mr. Galloway. "Why did you not say them indoors?"

"I scarcely know how I shall say them now, sir; for it is a very great
favour that I have to ask you, and you may be angry, perhaps, at my
thinking you might grant it."