“I feel — never mind.”

He returned to his work.

“Just listen to what I have written to Mrs. Vyse. I said: 'Dear Mrs. Vyse.'“

“Yes, mother, you told me. A jolly good letter.”

“I said: 'Dear Mrs. Vyse, Cecil has just asked my permission about it, and I should be delighted, if Lucy wishes it. But — '“ She stopped reading, “I was rather amused at Cecil asking my permission at all. He has always gone in for unconventionality, and parents nowhere, and so forth. When it comes to the point, he can't get on without me.”

“Nor me.”

“You?”