CHAPTER IX
FOILED
“
We seem to be just in time, Mr. Hurd,” Wilhelmina said. “Do you mind coming back for a moment into your study? Mr. Macheson and I have something to say to you.”
He glanced at his watch. He was wholly unable to conceal his annoyance at their appearance.
“I am afraid,” he said, with strained civility, “that I can only spare a couple of minutes.”
“You are going to town?” she asked, as he reluctantly followed her.
“Yes!” he answered. “Mr. White wished to see me early to-morrow morning about the new leases, and I have to go before the committee about this Loughborough water scheme.”
“These are my affairs,” she said, “so if you should miss your train, the responsibility will be mine.”
“I can spare five minutes,” he answered, “but I cannot miss that train. I have some private engagements. And, madam,” he continued, struggling with his anger, “I beg that you will not forget that even if I am in your employ, this is my house, and I will not have that man in it!”