And of all men in the world they're the easiest managed." "That's a recommendation, no doubt." "Of course it is;--a great recommendation." Mrs Greenow had no idea of joking when her mind was intent on serious things.

"He's to take us to the picnic to-morrow, and I do hope you'll manage to let him sit beside you.

It'll be the place of honour, because he gives all the wine.

He's picked up with that man Bellfield, and he's to be there; but if you allow your name to be once mixed up with his, it will be all over with you as far as Yarmouth is concerned." "I don't at all want to be mixed up with Captain Bellfield, as you call it," said Kate.

Then she subsided into her novel, while Mrs Greenow busied herself about the good things for the picnic.