The marchioness turned crimson. It was well known that the royal blood in the house of Mauleverer had entered it by irregular channels.
“I am not accustomed to this kind of language,” she proclaimed, rising. “I shall request the marquis to call on you.”
“That will suit me a great deal better. I shall be able to talk to the marquis,” was the grim answer.
The marchioness swept towards the door.
“I see I have made a mistake in coming here. I begin to ask myself whether you were really aware of what you were doing yesterday.”
Hammond smiled pleasantly.
“Ah, now, that sounds like rather a good explanation. I can say I was intoxicated, can’t I?”
“Well—”
The marchioness broke off short, her eyes fixed in stony horror on the doorway.
“Lady Victoria Mauleverer and Mr. Despencer!”