"Don't you try any of your tricks on me," he breathed. "I am quite prepared for all eventualities, Mr. Farrington; you make a mistake to threaten me."
"Not such a mistake as you have made," smiled Farrington. "You may fire your pistol to see if it will go off. My own impression is that the magazine has been removed."
One glance at the weapon was sufficient to demonstrate to the other that the man had spoken the truth. He went deathly white.
"Look here," he said, genially, "let us make an end to this absurd breach of friendship. I have come down to see what I can do for you."
"You have come down now to force me to grant your wishes regarding Doris," said Farrington. "I think the matter had better end." He pressed the bell, and Fall came in after a few moments' interval.
"Give the Count some refreshment before he goes," he said; "he is going to London."
The very matter-of-factness of the instructions reassured Count Poltavo, who for one moment had stood in a panic of fear; there was that in this big silent house which terrified him. And with the removal of this fear his insolent assurance returned. He stood in the doorway.
"You have made up your mind about Doris?" he said.
"Absolutely," said Farrington.
"Very good," said Poltavo.