at least I think she will in time.”

“Ah, very good, let her. I won’t interfere. Good night, little mother; sleep well. If I am late in the morning, don’t be annoyed. I’ve had three wakeful nights. The sea was very rough.”

“David!” Lady Thryng placed her hands on his shoulders and held him, looking in his eyes. “Marry Lady Clara. You are worthy of a princess, my son. You can afford to be ambitious. The day may come when you can entertain the king.”

“Now really, mother; I’ll entertain the king with pleasure. He’s a fine old chap. A little gay, you know, but quite the right sort. But Lady Clara is a step too high. She’d rub it into me some day that I’d married above my