As he stood musing and listening to the music of the choir, a girl came softly up the aisle, and touched him on the arm.
"Grandfather, dear," she said, "aren't you going to the Court?
You have a standing invitation for this night in the week.

You have not been there for so long." He fondled the hand on his arm.
"My dearest, they have not asked me for a long time." "But why not to-night?
I have laid out everything nicely for you--your new gaiters, and your D.C.L.coat with the pretty buttons and cord." "How can I leave you, my dear?
And they do not ask you!" The voice tried for playfulness, but the eyes had a disturbed look.
"Me?
Oh! they never ask me to dinner-you know that.

Tea and formal visits are enough for Lady Belward, and almost too much for me.

There is yet time to dress.

Do say you will go.