The bell of the front door sounded audibly in the morning-room in which they were.
"I dare say that's Robert," remarked Lady Evenswood. "He said he might call."
"Oh, by Jove!" exclaimed Southend with a laugh that sounded a trifle uneasy.
The door opened, and a man came in unannounced. He was of middle height, with large features, thick coarse hair, and a rather ragged beard; his arms were long and his hands large.
"How are you, Cousin Sylvia?" he said, crossing to Lady Evenswood, who gave him her hand without rising. "How are you, Southend?" He turned back to Lady Evenswood. "I thought you were alone."
He spoke in brusque tones, and he looked at Mina as if he did not know what she might be doing there. His appearance seemed vaguely familiar to her.
"We are holding a little conference, Robert. This young lady is very interested in Harry Tristram and his affair. Come now, you remember about it! Madame Zabriska, this is Mr Disney."
"Mr Disney!" The Imp gasped. "You mean——?"
The other two smiled. Mr Disney scowled a little. Obviously he had hoped to find his relative alone.