Without more ado, Anthony repaired to the pantry. Five minutes later he and the second footman took up the tea.
"Is Lord Pomfret in?" said the Marchioness.
"I will see, my lady," said Lyveden.
"Desire him to come in to tea."
"Very good, my lady."
Lord Pomfret had just returned from a luncheon-party, and was preparing to attend a thé dansant. His mother's command was abusively received. At length—
"Tell her I'm out, Lyveden."
Anthony hesitated.
"Her ladyship was very definite, my lord."
"D'you hear what I say?"