It would have been earlier but for a little difficulty in discovering Mr. Allingham’s whereabouts.

Sir Fletcher Portwood.

[Genially.] When ladies have fancies they don’t study the hour before indulging them.

Olive.

I am afraid it is so, in your family, Sir Fletcher.

[Mrs. Cloys makes a movement, but restrains herself.

John.

[In a low voice.] Olive——!

Sir Fletcher Portwood.

Er—the fact is, my sister shares with me the Lavater-like faculty for judging character at sight.