Ronald Earle had plenty of courage--no young hero ever led a forlorn hope with more bravery that he displayed in the interview with his parents, which might have daunted a bolder man.

As he approached, Lady Earle raised her eyes with a languid smile.
"Out again, Ronald!" she said.

"Sir Harry Laurence left his adieus for you.

I think the park possesses some peculiar fascination.

Have you been walking quickly?
Your face is flushed." He made no reply, but drew near to his mother; he bent over her and raised her hand to his lips.
"I am come to tell you something," he said.