study
of Mutimer's character had been profound; the necessity of making such a study
excused, she thought, any little excess of familiarity in winch she had
indulged, for it had long been clear to her that Mutimer would some day make an
offer. He lacked polish, it was true, but really he was more a gentleman than a
great many whose right to the name was never contested. And then he had
distinctly high aims; such a man could never be brutal in the privacy of his
home. There was every chance of his achieving some kind of eminence; already she
had suggested to him a Parliamentary career, and the idea had not seemed
altogether distasteful. Adela herself was as yet far from regarding Mutimer in
the light of a future husband; it was perhaps true that she even disliked him.
But then a young girl's likes and dislikes have, as a rule, small bearing on her
practical content in the married state; so, at least, Mrs. Waltham's experience
led her to believe. Only, it was clear that there must be no precipitancy. Let
the ground be thoroughly prepared.
    »May I advise you, Mr. Mutimer?« she said, in a lowered voice, bending
forward. »Let me deliver the invitation. I think it would be better, really. We
shall see whether you can persuade Mr. Wyvern to be present. I promise you to -
in fact, not to interpose any obstacle if Adela thinks she can be present at the
lunch.«
    »Then I'll leave it so,« said Richard, more cheerfully. Mrs. Waltham could
see that his nerves were in a dancing state. Really, he had much fine feeling.
 

                                   Chapter XI

It being only midday, Richard directed his steps at once to the Vicarage, and
had the good fortune to find Mr. Wyvern within.
    »Be seated, Mr. Mutimer; I'm glad to see you,« was the vicar's greeting.
    Their mutual intercourse had as yet been limited to an exchange of
courtesies in public, and one or two casual meetings at the Walthams' house.
Richard had felt shy of the vicar, whom he perceived to be a clergyman of other
than the weak-brained type, and the circumstances of the case would not allow
Mr. Wyvern to make advances. The latter proceeded with friendliness of tone,
speaking of the progress of New Wanley.
    »That's what I've come to see you about,« said Richard, trying to put
himself at ease by mentally comparing his