“The only people who seem to have any cause for discontent,” Dominey continued, “are the English settlers. I didn't commence to do any good myself there till a few years ago, but I have heard some queer stories about the way our own people were treated after the war.”

“What you say about South Africa, Sir Everard,” the young soldier remarked, “is naturally interesting, but I am bound to say that it is in direct opposition to all I have heard.”

“And I,” the Duke echoed fervently.

“I have lived there for the last eleven years,” Dominey continued, “and although I spent the earlier part of that time trekking after big game, lately I am bound to confess that every thought and energy I possess have been centered upon money-making. For that reason, perhaps, my observations may have been at fault. I shall claim the privilege of coming to one of your first meetings, Duke, and of trying to understand this question.”

His august connection blinked at him a little curiously for a moment behind his glasses.

“My dear Everard,” he said, “forgive my remarking it, but I find you more changed than I could have believed possible.”

“Everard is changed in more ways than one,” his wife observed, with faint irony.

Dominey, who had risen to leave, bent over her hand.

“What about my dinner party, sir?” she added.

“As soon as I return from Norfolk,” he replied.