He
was able to report, as "an absolute fact," that a junior member of
the firm--a junior, mind you--was building a house at Eastbourne
which would cost him, all told, not one penny less than sixty-five
thousand pounds! He would like to see that house; in fact, he must
see it. When Easter came round would Miss Sparkes honour him with
her company on a day trip to Eastbourne, that they might gaze
together on the appalling mansion?
"P'r'aps," replied Polly, "if you're good."
Whereat Mr. Parish perspired with ecstasy, and began at once to plan
the details of the outing.
Indeed, Polly was very gracious to him, and presently something
happened which enhanced her graciousness--perhaps increased her
genuine liking for the amiable young man. Her friend, Miss Waghorn,
was about to be married to Mr. Nibby. It was a cheerless time of the
year for a wedding, but Mr. Nibby had just come in for a little
legacy, on the strength of which he took a house in a southeast
suburb, and furnished it on the hire system, with a splendour which
caused Miss Waghorn to shriek in delight, and severely tested the
magnanimity of Polly's friendship.
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