se I must
consent to be victimised if only to further the charitable purposes of
Mrs Pansey. Where dwells the sybil?'

'In this tent! This way, your lordship!'

Dr Pendle advanced towards the gaily-striped tent, smiling broadly, and
with a playful shake of the head at the laughing nymphs around, he
invaded the privacy of Mother Jael. With a sigh of relief at having
accomplished his purpose, Cargrim let fall the flap which he had held up
for the bishop's entry, and turned away, rubbing his hands. His aim was
attained. It now remained to be seen what would come of the meeting
between bishop and gipsy.

CHAPTER XXII

MR MOSK IS INDISCREET

While the bishop was conversing with Miss Whichello about the engagement
of George and Mab, the young people themselves were discussing the
self-same subject with much ardour. Captain Pendle had placed two chairs
near a quick-set hedge, beyond the hearing of other guests, and on these
he and Mab were seated as closely as was possible without attracting the
eyes of onlookers. Their attitude and actions were guarded and
indifferent for the misleading of the company, but their conversation,
not being likely to be overheard, was confidential and lover-like
enough. No spectator from casual observation could have guessed their
secret.

'You must tell your father about our engagement at once,' said Mab, with
decision. 'He should have known of it before I consented to wear this
ring.'

'I'll tell him to-morrow, dearest, although I am sorry that Lucy and the
mater are not here to support me.'

'But you don't think that he will object to me, George?'

'I--should--think--not!' replied Captain Pendle, smiling at the very
idea; 'object to have the prettiest daughter-in-law in the county. You
don't know what an eye for beauty the bishop has.'

'If you are so sure of his consent I wonder you did not tell him
before,' pouted Mab. 'Aunty has been very angry at my keeping our
engagement secret.'

'Darling, you know it isn't a secret. We told Cargrim, and when he is
aware of it the whole town is. I didn't want to tell my father until I
was sure you would marry me.'

'You have been sure of that for a long time.'

'In a sort of way,' asserted Captain Pendle; 'but I was not absolutely
certain until I placed a ring on that pretty hand. Now I'll tell my
father, get his episcopalian benediction, and wire the news to Lucy and
the mater. We shall be married in spring. Miss Whichello will