The Abbot's Ghost

DRAMATIS PERSONAE

"How goes it, Frank? Down first, as usual."

"The early bird gets the worm, Major."

"Deuced ungallant speech, considering that the lovely Octavia is the
worm," and with a significant laugh the major assumed an Englishman's
favorite attitude before the fire.

His companion shot a quick glance at him, and an expression of anxiety
passed over his face as he replied, with a well-feigned air of
indifference, "You are altogether too sharp, Major. I must be on my
guard while you are in the house. Any new arrivals? I thought I heard a
carriage drive up not long ago."

"It was General Snowdon and his charming wife. Maurice Treherne came
while we were out, and I've not seen him yet, poor fellow!"