"God bless my soul," Mr. Bullsom exclaimed, in much excitement. "It's your lawyers, then, who have been advertising for Mary?"
Lord Arranmore bowed.
"That is so," he admitted. "I am sorry to say that I cannot induce your niece to look upon a certain transaction between her father and myself from a business-like point of view. I think that you and I, Mr. Bullsom, might come to a better understanding. Will you give me an appointment? I should like to discuss the matter with you."
"With the utmost pleasure, my lord," Mr. Bullsom declared heartily.
"Can't expect these young ladies to see through a business matter, eh?
I will come to your lordship's house whenever you like."
"It would be quite useless, uncle," Mary interposed, firmly. "Lord
Arranmore has already my final answer."
Mr. Bullsom was a little excited.
"Tut, tut, child!" he exclaimed. "Don't talk nonsense. I should be proud to talk this matter over with Lord Arranmore. We are staying at the Metropole, and if your lordship would call there to-morrow and take a bit of lunch, eh, about one o'clock—if it isn't too great a liberty."
Selina had never loved her father more sincerely. Lord Arranmore smiled faintly, but good-humoredly.
"You are exceedingly kind," he said. "For our business talk, perhaps, it would be better if you would come to St. James's House at, say, 10:30, if that is convenient. I will send a carriage."
"I'll be ready prompt," Mr. Bullsom declared. "Now, girls, we will say good-afternoon to his lordship and get a four-wheeler."