I didn't know he cared--" "It's evident he cares very much!" said Howard, gravely.

"If you were the Prodigal Son he couldn't have felt it more." "And yet they say--that bagman said--" muttered Stafford with smouldering rage and indignation.
"There are few things in my life that I regret, my dear Staff; but till my dying day I shall regret that I did not turn and rend that bagman! He's a splendid fellow--splendid! Now I've seen him I don't wonder at his success.

Envy is not one of my numerous vices, Staff; but frankly I envy you your father! Wake up, old man! We mustn't keep him waiting! What quarters!" He looked round the room as he moved to go.

"Fit for a prince! But you _are_ a prince! Why, dash it, I feel like a prince myself! How are you, Measom?
Got down all right, then ?--I'll give you a knock when I'm ready, Stafford!" Stafford dressed quickly, thinking all the while of his father; of his good looks, his deep, pleasant voice, his affectionate welcome; and thrusting from him the unfavourable impression which the ornate splendour of the place had made.
Howard knocked presently and the two men went down.

Sir Stephen was waiting in the hall; and Stafford, with a little thrill of pride, noticed that he looked still more distinguished in his evening-dress, which was strikingly plain; a single pearl--but it was priceless one--was its only ornament.
"By George, you have been quick!" said Sir Stephen, with his genial smile.
"That's one for yourself, sir," said Stafford.
"Oh, I?
I can dress in five minutes," responded Sir Stephen, linking his arm in Stafford's.