“To Australia!” said Percy Levant in a low voice.
Spenser Churchill made a mocking gesture.
“Nonsense, my dear fellow! Why should you go to Australia? On the day after the wedding you and I will have a little explanation. I shall have the happiness of telling you whom you have married, and the extent of your good fortune; of putting you in the way of paying me that little bonus we agreed upon—and then you may go where you please—London—Paris—Jericho!”
“I see,” said Percy Levant, slowly. “It is a clever plan. And you will tell me nothing until after the marriage? You will not trust me——”
The gentle philanthropist’s smile spoke volumes by way of answer. It really meant, “Do you take me for a fool?”
“Yes, it is a clever plan,” repeated Percy Levant. “But, clever as it is, I think you will spoil it, Spenser Churchill.”
“I! Spoil it!” he echoed with reproachful indignation.
“Yes, I think so. Do you think Lady Despard will not suspect that there is something wrong when you dog our footsteps and follow us about——”
Mr. Spenser Churchill laughed.
“But I do not intend to inflict my presence upon you, my dear Percy. I shall ask dear Lady Despard’s permission to remain here at the villa, in charge, as it were, during her absence. You see? So that there will be nothing to be suspicious about.”