"A rescue-party is to be organised at once. The war being practically at an end, it would probably resolve itself into a case of ransom, if there were any truth in the whole thing. I may be in possession of further news a little before the newspapers. Needless to say that I shall bring it here at once."
He took up his hat and stood a moment looking down at her.
"Lord Watergate, we do not even attempt to thank you for your kindness."
"I have been able, unfortunately, to do so little for you. I wish to-day that I had come to you as the bringer of good tidings; I am destined, it seems, to be your bird of ill-omen."
He dropped his eyes suddenly, and Gertrude turned away her face. A pause fell between them; then she said—
"Will it be long before news of any reliability can reach us?"
"I cannot tell; it may be a matter of days, of weeks, or even months."
"I fear it will be impossible to keep the rumour from my poor Lucy."
"I am afraid so. I trust to you to save her from false hopes."