"Will you take a seat, madam?"
The man stepped noiselessly to the bedroom door and passed in, shutting it behind him. The lock, however, failed to catch, and Mrs. Ruyslaender caught the conversation.
"Pardon me, my lord, a lady has called. She mentioned no appointment, so I considered it better to acquaint your lordship."
"Excellent discretion," said a voice. It had a slow, sarcastic intonation, which brought a painful flush to Mrs. Ruyslaender's cheek. "I never make appointments. Do I know the lady?"
"No, my lord. But—hem—I know her by sight, my lord. It is Mrs. Ruyslaender."
"Oh, the diamond-merchant's wife. Well, find out tactfully what it's all about, and, unless it's urgent, ask her to call to-morrow."
The valet's next remark was inaudible, but the reply was:
"Don't be coarse, Bunter."
The valet returned.
"His lordship desires me to ask you, madam, in what way he can be of service to you?"