‘What do the clubs say?’ asked Atlee.
‘I think they are divided between Orlop and Bouverie. I’m told that the Garrick people say it’s Sankey, a young fellow in F. O.’
‘You should see Aunt Jerningham about it, Mr. Atlee—her eagerness is driving her half mad.’
‘Take him out to “Lebanon” on Sunday,’ said my lord; and Lady Maude agreed with a charming grace and courtesy, adding as she left the room, ‘So remember you are engaged for Sunday.’
Atlee bowed as he held the door open for her to pass out, and threw into his glance what he desired might mean homage and eternal devotion.
‘Now then for a little quiet confab,’ said my lord. ‘Let me hear what you mean by your telegram. All I could make out was that you found our man.’
‘Yes, I found him, and passed several hours in his company.’
‘Was the fellow very much out at elbows, as usual?’
‘No, my lord—thriving, and likely to thrive. He has just been named envoy to the Ottoman Court.’
‘Bah!’ was all the reply his incredulity could permit.