He brought out something that, in all his overflow, he had been able to keep back till other matters were disposed of.

It was the announcement that he was at last ready to marry--that he saw his way.

A rise at Chalk Farm had been offered him; he was to be taken into the business, bringing with him a capital the estimation of which by other parties constituted the handsomest recognition yet made of the head on his shoulders.

Therefore their waiting was over--it could be a question of a near date.

They would settle this date before going back, and he meanwhile had his eye on a sweet little home.