"Ah, yes. But that was because I was engaged on very particular business."
"What business?"
"I am sorry I cannot tell you."
"You shall, Cecil. I will not leave this house until I get an answer. I am your husband. I have the right to demand it."
"You forget our little arrangement. I acknowledge no husband," says Cecil, with just one flash from her violet eyes.
"Do you refuse to answer me?"
"I do," replies she, emphatically.
"Then I shall stay here until you alter your mind," says Sir Penthony, with an air of determination, settling himself with what in a low class of men would have been a bang, in the largest arm-chair the room contains.
With an unmoved countenance Lady Stafford rises and rings the bell.
Dead silence.