The Hon. Fitzroy Bagley, third son of a British peer, did not understand even yet that he was discharged as one dismisses a housemaid caught kissing the policeman. He could not think what Mr. Ryder wanted him to go abroad for unless it were on some matter of business, and it was decidedly inconvenient for him to sail at this time.
"But, sir," he stammered. "I'm afraid—I'm afraid——"
"Yes," rejoined Ryder promptly, "I notice that—your hand is shaking."
"I mean that I——"
"You mean that you have other engagements!" said Ryder sternly.
"Oh no—no but——"
"No engagement at eleven o'clock to-morrow morning?" insisted Ryder.
"With my daughter?" chimed in the senator.
Mr. Bagley now understood. He broke out in a cold perspiration and he paled visibly. In the hope that the full extent of his plans were not known, he attempted to brazen it out.
"No, certainly not, under no circumstances," he said.