``Yes, but it's more pleasant by road.''

``And cheaper.''

``Yes, and cheaper I suppose ... well, I'm going down to lunch. You won't have another?''

Beaver rose to go.

``Yes, I think I will.''

``Oh, all right. Macdougal. Two more please.''

Macdougal said, ``Shall I book them to you, sir?''

``Yes, if you will.''

Later, at the bar, Jock said, ``I made Beaver pay for a drink.''

``He can't have liked that.''

``He nearly died of it. Know anything about pigs?''

``No. Why?''

``Only that they keep writing to me about them from my constituency.''

Beaver went downstairs but before going into the dining room he told the porter to ring up his home and see if there was any message for him.

``Lady Tipping rang up a few minutes ago and asked whether you could come to luncheon with her today.''

``Will you ring her up and say that I shall be delighted to but that I may be a few minutes late.''

It was just after half past one when he left Brat's and walked at a good pace towards Hill Street.

CHAPTER TWO

English Gothic--I

BETWEEN the villages of Hetton and Compton Last lies the extensive park of Hetton Abbey. This, formerly one of the notable houses of the county, was entirely rebuilt in 1864 in the Gothic style and is now devoid of interest. The grounds are open to the public daily until sunset and the house may be viewed on application by writing. It contains some good portraits and furniture. The terrace commands a fine view.

This passage from the county Guide Book did not cause Tony Last any serious annoyance. Unkinder things had been said. His aunt Frances, embittered by an upbringing of unremitting severity, remarked that the plans of the house must have been adapted by Mr.