We have a warm welcome for you, Baron
Ned, but welcome after a long ride is a mere appetizer. I'll fetch a
basket--yes, two!"
The name "Baron Ned" was a heritage from the days of my childhood, and
doubtless it will cling to me till the day of my death. I have never
objected to it on the lips of my friends, but rather, have always liked
it.
Sarah's good common sense set us all laughing, and when she brought in
two large baskets, Frances and I went forth to buy our supper.
When we were a short way from the house, I said: "I've come to spend
several days with you, my cousin-sister. Are you not delighted?"
"Yes," she answered, cordially enough, but without the old-time gladness
in her manner.
"And my purpose in coming concerns you," I continued.
She started perceptibly and blushed, but after a moment brought herself
together and asked laughingly:--
"You don't want to marry me, brother Ned?"
"No, no," I answered. "We're far too dear to each other to spoil it all
by marriage, and my station in life, to say nothing of my small estate,
is in no way up to your value. It would not be a fair exchange. Your
husband shall be at least a duke, with not less than forty thousand
pounds a year. That, by the way, is a part of my mission in Sundridge.
No, no, I do not bring an offer!" I said, hastily, noticing that she
drew away from me in her manner, "I simply hope to pave the way to such
an offer some time in the future, and want to warn you against doing
anything that might forestall good fortune.
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