For a while the two rode almost in silence; but after the first canter
Adrien reined up his horse close to that of his companion. Lady
Constance purposely brought the conversation round to his estates, for,
with all his dissipation and languor, Leroy was no indifferent landlord,
and Lord Barminster invariably referred all complaints--such few as
there were--to his son.
"I'm sorry you would not renew the lease for Farmer Darrell," she said
gently; "he is almost heart-broken at having to leave Briar Farm."
Adrien pulled up his horse sharply.
"Farmer Darrell to leave Briar Farm!" he said quickly. "What do you
mean, Constance?"
She looked at him steadily, as she replied:
"I rode over there yesterday, and found them all in great trouble. They
told me Mr. Vermont, acting under your orders, had refused to grant them
new leases. I promised to speak to Uncle Phillip; but you know how angry
he gets whenever any one mentions Mr. Vermont's name, so I thought I
would ask you myself." She blushed crimson, as if at her own boldness.
"Of course, you mustn't do it just on my account, but--"
"Mustn't I?" interrupted her cousin, looking keenly, almost
affectionately at the slim, girlish figure, and pretty piquant face.
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