The bowling-green was to serve as drawing-room, and at
one end was pitched an immense tent where the dinner was to be.
'I say, Claude,' said he in his quickest and most confused way, 'I
depend upon you for one thing. Do not let the Baron be too near me.'
'The Baron of Beef?' said Claude.
'No, the Baron of Beechcroft. If you wish my speech to be radara
tadara, put him where I can imagine that he hears me.'
'Very well,' said Claude, laughing; 'have you any other commands?'
'No--yes, I have though. You know what we settled about the toasts.
Hunt up old Farmer Elderfield as soon as he comes, and do not
frighten him. If you could sit next to him and make him get up at
the right time, it would be best. Tell him I will not let any one
propose my health but my great-grandfather's tenant. You will manage
it best. And tell Frank Hawkesworth, and Mr. Weston, or some of
them, to manage so that the gentry may not sit together in a herd,
two or three together would be best. Mind, Claude, I depend on you
for being attentive to all the damsels. I cannot be everywhere at
once, and I see your great Captain will be of no use to me.'
Here news was brought that the labourers had begun to arrive, and the
party went to the walnut avenue, where the feast was spread.
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