Hardyman was all compliance. He smiled and patted his horse's neck.
"To-morrow, then," he said. "My compliments, and I will call in the
afternoon. Let me see: Miss Pink lives at--?" He waited, as if he
expected Isabel to assist his treacherous memory once more. She
hesitated again. Hardyman looked round at his groom. The groom could
find out the address, even if he did not happen to know it already.
Besides, there was the little row of houses visible at the further end
of the road. Isabel pointed to the villas, as a necessary concession
to good manners, before the groom could anticipate her. "My aunt lives
there, sir; at the house called The Lawn."
"Ah! to be sure!" said Hardyman. "I oughtn't to have wanted reminding;
but I have so many things to think of at the farm. And I am afraid I
must be getting old--my memory isn't as good as it was. I am so glad to
have seen you, Miss Isabel. You and your aunt must come and look at my
horses. Do you like horses? Are you fond of riding? I have a quiet roan
mare that is used to carrying ladies; she would be just the thing for
you. Did I beg you to give my best compliments to your aunt? Yes? How
well you are looking! our air here agrees with you. I hope I haven't
kept you standing too long? I didn't think of it in the pleasure of
meeting you. Good-by, Miss Isabel; good-by, till to-morrow!"
He took off his hat to Isabel, nodded to Moody, and pursued his way to
the farm.
Isabel looked at her companion. His eyes were still on the ground.
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