"Well, you mustn't visit it on my friend here, who is anxious to make your acquaintance. Miss Medland—Mr. Benham."
Benham sat down and began to make himself agreeable. He had a flow of conversation, and seemed in no hurry to move. Captain Heseltine appeared with a summons for Dick, who sulkily obeyed. Puttock caught sight of Jewell, and, with an apology, pursued him. Benham sat talking to Daisy Medland. Presently he proposed they should go where they would see the people better, and Daisy, who was bored, eagerly acquiesced. They took a seat by the side of the broad gravel walk.
"Will no one rescue me?" thought Daisy.
"He's bound to pass soon," thought Benham.
Benham's wish was the first to be fulfilled. Before long the Premier came in sight, accompanied by Coxon.
"Ah, there's your daughter," said the latter. "You were wondering where she was."
Medland looked, and saw Daisy and Benham sitting side by side. He quickened his pace and went up to them. Benham rose and took off his hat. Medland ignored him.
"I was looking for you, Daisy," he said. "I want you."
Daisy stood up, with relief.