"It's John," remarked Anna-Felicitas placidly. "Come early."
"I say—" said a voice behind Mrs. Bilton.
"Yes," nodded Anna-Felicitas, getting up out of the deep chair. "That's John."
"I say—may I come in? I've got something important—"
Mr. Twist looked at Anna-Felicitas. "Wouldn't you rather—?" he began.
"I don't mind John," she said softly, her face flooded with a most beautiful light.
Mr. Twist opened the door and went out. "Come in," he said. "Mrs. Bilton, may I present Mr. Elliott to you—Commander Elliott of the British Navy."
"Pleased to meet you, Commander Elliott," said Mrs. Bilton. "Mr. Twist, your brandy is on the verandah. Shall I bring it to you in here?"
"No thank you, Mrs. Bilton. I'll go out there presently. Perhaps you wouldn't mind waiting for me there—I don't suppose Mr. Elliott will want to keep me long. Come in, Mr. Elliott."
And having disposed of Mrs. Bilton, who was in a particularly willing and obedient and female mood, he motioned Elliott into the office.