He did not look at Verty, but, with; a bad assumption of nonchalance, bade the boy thank his mistress, and say that Mr.
Roundjacket would present his respects, in person, at Apple Orchard, on the morrow.

Would she excuse his not coming out?
This message was carried to the chariot, which soon afterwards drove away.
Verty gazed after it.
"I say, Mr.Roundjacket," he observed, at length, "how funny it is for Miss Lavinia to come to see you!" "Hum!--hum!--we are--hum--ah--! The fact is, my dear Verty!" cried Mr.
Roundjacket, rising, and limping through a _pas seul_, in spite of his rheumatism--"the fact is, I have been acting the most miserable and deceptive way to you for the last hour.

Yes, my dear boy! I am ashamed of myself! Carried away by the pride of opinion, and that fondness which bachelor's have for boasting, I have been deceiving you! But it never shall be said that Robert Roundjacket refused the amplest reparation.

My reparation, my good Verty, is taking you into my confidence.

The fact is--yes, the fact really is--as aforesaid, or rather as _not_ aforesaid, myself and the pleasing Miss Lavinia are to be married before very long! Don't reply, sir! I know my guilt--but you might have known I was jesting.