"
"Haven't reached that heavenly stage of Christian self-abnegation yet,
Wilks."
"Perhaps I am mistaken in supposing you take a great interest in the
lady?"
"Interest, yes; great, more than doubtful. She's the third girl I've had
to send away for the good of her health. The other two knew where to go,
and went. She didn't; so I thought of establishing her at the post
office. I never dreamt the Squire would come for us till I got his
message. I meant to accompany her in the stage, and land her in the arms
of Mrs. Tibbs; but here we are, like a bridal party, with Marjorie for
bridesmaid and Douglas for best man."
"Thank you, Corry; you have relieved me from a great anxiety. Miss Du
Plessis thinks very highly of your ---- travelling companion."
"Douglas, do you mean?"
"No, the lady."
"Oh, bother the lady! Wilks, it's a doubly grave situation. If it wasn't
for Mr. Terry and Marjorie, I'd cut my stick. As it is, I'll run and
engage that post-office room for myself, and be back in time for dinner
or whatever else is up. Au revoir." With a bound he was off the
verandah, valise in hand, and away on to the road.
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