"With many thanks to you also, "I remain, "Yours truly, "CARADOC WYNNE."
"Isn't it a shame, Beauty," said Gwen. "Just as I was beginning to
make a favourable impression upon him, too! There must have been
something in the letter Bob took up to him this morning."
"Oh, of course," said her father; "fine young fellow--very!"
"Awfully handsome, I call him," said Winifred; "such a sparkle in his
eyes!"
"Beauty wasn't smitten," said Gwen.
"On the contrary, she was so smitten she fainted," said Winnie; "you
are still rather pale, dear. Papa, wouldn't it be a jolly day for a
picnic by the Ithon?"
"Yes," said the Colonel; "bring your lunch down in the brake, and we'll
light a fire by the carn, and broil the fish, for I am sure we shall
get a basketful to-day--eh! eh! Cecil?"
"Yes--and the drive will do Miss Powell good," said the lad, who was in
good spirits from having so easily got rid of Cardo.
And after breakfast they all drove off to the picnic, and Cardo's
arrival and his departure were forgotten by all save one.