Mr. Hengist himself came forward, and presently they heard Mrs. Ramsay tell him that Thomas had eaten the bow someone tied about his neck.

The breakfast was a great success; champagne revived Elizabeth from the weariness that was stealing over her, but Stephen had to help her to cut the cake.

Healths were drunk; Stephen made a speech, and John Cary murmured to Elizabeth, Quite a witty effort, what? He then caused salmon mayonnaise to be put before her, and she ate some of it, rather to her own surprise.

Lawrence and Mrs. Ramsay, at the far end of the table appeared to be engaged in close and earnest conversation, about food; Miss Arden was inclined to be lachrymose. Beside her Anthony sought to cheer and amuse.

The vigilant best man was looking at his wrist-watch; he touched Elizabeth’s arm and told her that it was time she went away to change. She caught Miss Arden’s eye, and they rose.

Mrs. Ramsay whispered to Mr. Hengist,

“Poor darling, Miss Arden will cry! Not poor darling Miss Arden. Poor darling Elizabeth. Do you think I can go with them, and help? Then the aunt won’t cry.”

“Yes, do!” Mr. Hengist said. “She might easily upset Elizabeth.”

So Mrs. Ramsay came floating towards Elizabeth, and asked with a winning smile if she might come too. John Caryll marched Stephen away, and a maid-servant conducted Elizabeth to her room where her travelling garments were laid out in readiness for her.

Miss Arden had no chance to weep because Mrs. Ramsay talked so hard and so madly. She made Elizabeth laugh, and it seemed that she had left her sunshade in the church and didn’t know what had become of her handkerchief.

Lawrence came presently to say goodbye to Elizabeth. He was genuinely affected, and kissed her twice.

She went out into the passage, dove-grey now, with a saucy little hat on her head. Mr. Hengist was there, to wish her the best, the very best, of luck. He went with them out of the hall, and Elizabeth felt that she never liked him so much.

Stephen was waiting, hat in hand, John at his elbow. John had the railway tickets, and was coming to Victoria to put them into their train. He looked so conscientious and so dogged that Elizabeth wondered whether he would consent to leave them at the station, or whether he would insist on accompanying them on their honeymoon.

Stephen stepped forward, his eyes on Elizabeth’s face. Lawrence met him, and took his hand.

“I give her to you,” he said. “Take care of her.”

“I will,” Stephen said, just as he had said it in the church.

“Oh, my darling, I hope you’ll be happy!” Miss Arden said, on a half-sob.