But in the dove-like, billing and cooing humor in which
L'Isle was, time flew on the wings of the carrier-pigeon, and they
arrived at Mrs. Shortridge's house too soon for him, though all the
guests, but themselves, were there already. Two or three score of
Portuguese, most of them ladies, and nearly as many English officers
filled the rooms.
Some of these gentlemen looked surprised at seeing L'Isle, thinking he
had already left Elvas. Lieutenant Goring, who was showing off his
tall lithe person and dragoon uniform to the best advantage, beside
his short and sturdy friend, Captain Hatton, seemed annoyed at
L'Isle's presence, and Hatton shared his feelings. L'Isle stood in the
way of their paying court to Lady Mabel, and Goring, at least, had
reckoned on his absence.
"I had hoped," said he, "that we were rid of the Colonel for once. He
is an abominable monopolist."
"He is so," said Hatton, "for Lady Mabel's smiles belong to the
brigade."
"And the light dragoons quartered with it," interjected Goring. "But
here he is, basking in the sunshine, and keeping us shivering in the
shade, when he ought to be on the road to Alcantara. Sir Rowland is
expecting him.
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