"
Sir Stephen looked across the table at the stalwart, graceful frame;
but he said nothing: there was no need, for his eyes were eloquent of
love and admiration.
Stafford changed into riding things soon after breakfast, went down to
the stables and had Adonis saddled. Davis superintended the operation
and the stablemen edged round to watch. Davis expressed his approval as
Stafford mounted and went off on a splendid creature, remarking as he
started:
"Beautiful mouth, Davis!"
"Yes, Pottinger," said Davis, succinctly, "he's worthy of him. That's
what I call 'hands' now. Dash my aunt if you'd find it easy to match
the pair of 'em! There's a class about both that you don't often see.
If you'll step inside my little place, Mr. Pottinger, we'll drink your
guv'nor's health. I like his shape, I like his style; and I'm counted a
bit of a judge. He's a gentleman, and a high-bred 'n at that."
Stafford rode down the winding drive at which the gardeners were at
work on borders and shrubberies, and on to the road. The air was like
champagne. The slight breeze just ruffled the lake on which the sun was
glittering; Stafford was conscious of a strange feeling of eagerness,
of quickly thrilling vitality which was new to him.
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