"And to think," said Jessamy, as we walked on side by side, "to think
as 'Firebrand Vereker' is your uncle--not to mention Sir George, as
once fou't ten rounds wi' 'Buck Vibart'! To think--"
"Mighty fine gentlemen, ain't they, Jess?" enquired Diana, with a toss
of her shapely head.
"Of the finest, Ann! Honoured by all, from the Prince down. And to
think as Mr. Vereker here--"
"My name is Peregrine;" said I, "indeed, I would rather you called me
Perry, it is shorter."
"As Mr. Perry, here--"
"Perry!" I admonished.
"As--Perry is their own nevvy--"
"Though he don't look like it!" added Diana.
"Why, that's true, Ann, that's true; but his clothes can be changed--"
"But his face can't, Jess!"
"Lord bless me, Ann, what's wrong wi' his face?"
"Only everything!" she answered, with another disdainful gesture of
her head.
"I am extremely sorry that my face displeases you, Diana," said I.
"So'm I!" she nodded. "Though it ain't your fault, I s'pose."
"If you allude to my bruises and black eyes--"
"They're nearly well," said Jessamy.
"I don't!" said Diana.
"Then pray what particularly displeases you in my face this evening?"
I enquired.
"All of it! You! Your ways! Makin' a fool o' me afore your fine uncles
and them staring their proud eyes out! As if I'd ever marry--you!" At
this Jessamy opened his eyes rather wide and I fancy his lips quivered
slightly.
"Ah, but you will, Diana!" said I.
Pages:
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215