"It will not come to that, I trust," said Phillipa, earnestly, and with every appearance of good faith.
"Not if you will help me, as I know you will."
Mrs. Purling was resolved now to issue positive orders for Harold to marry Miss Fanshawe—out of hand. But next day Phillipa suddenly announced her intention of returning to town.
"You promised to stay at least a month." The heiress was in tears.
"I am heartily sorry; but Cæcilia—Lady Gayfeather—is ill and alone. I must go to her at once."
"You have a feeling heart, Phillipa. This is a sacred duty; I cannot object. But I shall see you again?"
"As soon as I can return, dear Mrs. Purling—if you will have me, that is to say."
The story of Lady Gayfeather's illness was a mere fabrication. What summoned Phillipa to London was this note:
"I must see you. Can you be at Cæcilia's on Saturday?—G."
Phillipa sat alone in Lady Gayfeather's drawing-room, when Mr. Jillingham was announced.