It was nearly two hours later that the Secretary found time, amidst the distractions of a hurried departure, for he had made his peace with his hostess and was leaving for town that afternoon, to redeem his promise to Lady Isabelle.
"Is Lieutenant Kingsland in the house?" he asked of the servant, who answered his summons.
"He's in the billiard-room, sir."
"Very well. Will you present my compliments to him, and ask him to be so kind as to come to my room for a few minutes?"
In less time than it takes to tell it, the young officer responded to the summons, saying as he entered:—
"Here I am. Can I do anything for you?"
"Perhaps. But I sent for you primarily for the purpose of doing you a favour."
"That sounds encouraging. By the way, did you know that your especial admiration, Darcy, was planning to vacate at the earliest opportunity?"
"Yes," replied the Secretary, drily. "I gave him leave to go, but he's to all intents and purposes under arrest."