"I have considered—the matter fully," he said; "and I have talked it over with Mr. Ascough. There seems to be no reason why I should refuse the income to which I seem to be entitled."
Lord Arranmore nodded and lit a cigarette.
"I am thankful," he said, dryly, "for so much common-sense. Mr.
Ascough will put you in possession of a banking account at any moment.
Should you consider it—well—intrusive on my part if I were to inquire
as to your plans?"
Brooks hesitated.
"They are as yet not wholly formed," he said, "but I am thinking of studying social politics for some time here in London with the intention of entering public life."
"A very laudable ambition," Lord Arranmore answered. "If I can be of any assistance to you, I trust that you will not fail to let me know."
"I thank you," Brooks answered. "I shall not require any assistance from you."
Lord Arranmore winced perceptibly. Brooks, who would not have believed him capable of such a thing, for a moment doubted his eyes.
"I am much obliged for your candour," Lord Arranmore said, coldly, and with complete self-recovery. "Don't trouble to come to the door. Good-evening."
Brooks was alone. He sat down in one of the big easy-chairs, and for a moment forgot that empty stall next to Selina. He had seen the first sign of weakness in a man whom he had judged to be wholly and entirely heartless.