“You will write and say you’ve told lies, and are sorry for it.”

“I address whom I please and write what I please.”

Vane interposed.

“Really, Neston—you, Gerald, I mean—don’t make a row here. Can’t you get him away, Tommy?”

Gerald gave Tommy a warning look, and poor Tommy shook his head mournfully.

George felt the necessity of avoiding a scene. He began to move quietly away. Gerald stood full in his path.

“You don’t go till you’ve answered. Will you do what I tell you?”

“Really, Gerald,” George began, still clinging to peace.

“Yes or no?”

“No,” said George, with a smile and a shrug.