But from her it came so naturally that Merryon scarcely noticed it.

He had been "Billikins" to her throughout the brief three months that had elapsed since their marriage.

Of course, Mrs.
Paget disapproved, but then Mrs.Paget was Mrs.Paget.She disapproved of everything young and gay.
Merryon gave the required order, and then sat in stolid patience to await his wife's coming.

She did not keep him long.

Very soon she came lightly out and joined him, an impudent smile on her sallow little face, dancing merriment in her eyes.
"Oh, poor old Billikins!" she said, commiseratingly.