Buntingford and Geoffrey were especially thoughtful and preoccupied.

At last the former, after smoking a while without speaking, got up with the remark that he must see to some letters before post.
"Oh, no!"-- pleaded Helena, intercepting him, and speaking so that he only should hear.

"To-morrow's Whitsunday, and Monday's Bank Holiday.

What's the use of writing letters?
Don't you remember--you promised to show me those drawings before dinner--and may Geoffrey come, too ?" A sudden look of reluctance and impatience crossed Buntingford's face.
Helena perceived it at once, and drew back.

But Buntingford said immediately: "Oh, certainly.