"I thought that was your back!" "Your engagement was here ?" asked Will bluntly, referring to the other's telegram of excuse.
"Yes.

I was obliged to--" He broke off, his eyes fixed on the figures of Bertha and her mother.
"You were obliged-- ?" "You see the ladies there," said Franks in a lower voice, "there, on the seat?
It's Mrs.Cross and her daughter--you remember the Crosses?
I called to see them yesterday, and only Mrs.Cross was at home, and--the fact is, I as good as promised to meet them here, if it was fine." "Very well," replied Warburton carelessly, "I won't keep you." "Go, but--" Franks was in great confusion.

He looked this way and that, as if seeking for an escape.

As Will began to move away, he kept at his side.
"Look here, Warburton, let me introduce you to them.

They're very nice people; I'm sure you'd like them; do let me--" "Thank you, no.