Lady Brayle seemed anxious to forget what she and H.M. had been talking about
"We were merely discussing," said Jenny's grandmother, plucking a subject out of the air, "Dr. Lauder's interest in arms and armour. Come to think of it yesterday in the arms-room I saw a shield and a fine old English blade which I thought of commissioning someone to buy as a present"
Sudden horror showed in Aunt Cicely's eyes, an expression which startled Martin Drake until he imagined it was one of her exaggerations.
"But you must never…!" she cried. And them "Oh, dear, what am I saying? Dr. Laurier is so conservative that it really doesn't matter. Do come and talk to me."
They went. Yet not without a parting shot from the Dowager Countess as she turned at the door.
"Captain Drake," she said.
(Martin thought shall I let them have it now, both of them? About Jenny and me? Ricky probably wouldn't mind. But the old dragon undoubtedly knows or guesses already; whereas Aunt Cicely would sob and call for sal volatile. Better hold your fire until you can blast the old dragon).
"Yes?" he said.
"Without doubt" said Jenny's grandmother, "you were thinking of telephoning to the Manor?" "I was thinking of doing just that"
"When you ring," said Lady Brayle imperturbably, "you will be told that Jennifer is not at home. This, of course, you will disbelieve. Yet it happens to be true. I tell you so to save you trouble."