Ralph Duncombe wrote on the back of his card, "From Miss Lisle," and enclosed it in an envelope.
"Give that to his grace," he said.
Grey came back after a few minutes.
"His grace will see you, sir. Follow me, if you please," and he led the way to the study at the back of the hall.
The duke was lying on the adjustable couch, and the sight of his wasted form and deathlike face startled Ralph Duncombe and drove all the anger from his heart.
The duke signed to Grey to withdraw, then raised himself on his elbow and looked at Ralph Duncombe keenly.
"You wish to see me?" he said.
"Yes," said Ralph, and unconsciously he lowered his voice.
"And you come from—Miss Lisle?" A faint, very faint color tinged the transparent face.