“What is it?” said the doctor.
“Ces has been playing the fool. I don’t know why, or how. And he’s written to Uncle Alfred to lend him money.”
“He means give, of course,” interjected Uncle Alfred.
“Does he give any reason for wanting money?”
Rose looked at her uncle.
“He writes that he wishes to help a friend who is in great difficulties. Presumably he supposes that I shall believe it.”
Uncle Alfred’s tone left little doubt as to the inaccuracy of the conjecture.
“Yes, I think we might discount that,” said Lucian thoughtfully. “Is this the first time he’s been hard up for money?”
There was a moment’s silence and then Rose said shortly, “No.”
“Do you know—can you guess—what he wants it for?”