Mrs. Easterfield did not laugh then; but when Hemphill had gone, and she had joined her husband, they had a good time together.

“And so they all recommend Lancaster,” said he.

“So far,” she answered; “but I have yet to hear what Mr. Du Brant has to say.”

“I think you have had enough of this discarding business,” said Mr. Tom.  “You would better leave Du Brant to me.”

“Oh, no,” said she; “I promised Olive.  And, besides, I think I like it.”

“I believe you do,” said Mr. Tom.  “And now I want to say something important.  It is not right that Broadstone should be given up entirely to the affairs of Miss Asher and her lovers.  I think, for instance, that our friend Fox looks very much dissatisfied.”

“That is because Olive is not here,” she replied.

“Not only that,” he answered.  “He loses her, and does not get anything else in her place.  Now, we must make this house lively, as it ought to be.  Let Du Brant off for to-day and let us make up a party to go out on the river.  We will take two boats, and have some of the men to do the rowing.  Postpone dinner so we can have a long afternoon.”

Mr. Du Brant did not go on the river excursion.  He had some letters to write, and begged to be excused.  He had not asked when Miss Asher was expected back, or anything about her return.  He did not understand the state of affairs, and was afraid he might receive some misleading information.  But if she should come that afternoon or the next day he determined to be on the spot.  After that he might not be able to remain at Broadstone, and it would be a glorious opportunity for him if she should come back that afternoon.

It was twilight when the boating party returned.  Under the genial influence of Mr. Tom and his wife they had all enjoyed themselves as much as it was possible for them to do so without Olive.

When Claude Locker, a little behind the others, reached the top of the hill he perceived, not far away, Mr. Du Brant strolling.  These two had not spoken since the night of the interrupted serenade.  Each of them had desired to avoid words or actions which might disturb the peace of this hospitable home, and consequently had very successfully succeeded in avoiding each other.  But now Mr. Locker walked straight up to the secretary of legation, holding out his hand.

“Now, Mr. Du Brant,” said he, “since we are both in the same boat, let us shake hands and let bygones be bygones.”

But the young Austrian did not take the proffered hand.  For a moment he looked as though he were about to turn away without taking any notice of Locker, but he had not the strength of mind to do this.  He turned and remarked with a scowl: 

“What do you mean by same boat?  I have nothing to do with you on the water or on the land!”

Mr. Locker shrugged his shoulders.  “So you have not been told,” said he.

“Told!” exclaimed Du Brant, now very much interested.  “Told what?”