“I do hope Mr Louvaine is not drawn in among them,” said Mr Marshall, thoughtfully.
“They have been away of late,” replied Hans, “and he hath not been there so often.”
“Are they away now?”
“No, lately returned.”
“I would I could win Aubrey for a talk,” said Edith.
“Shall I call at my Lord Oxford’s and leave a message that you would have him call here?”
“Truly, Mr Marshall, you should do me a great kindness.”
“Then I so will. Good-night.”
Aubrey was playing billiards with his young master and several of the younger gentlemen of his household, when he was told that Mr Marshall requested a word with him. The information alarmed him, for he thought it meant bad news. Having obtained the young Earl’s leave to go and ascertain why he was wanted, Aubrey ran hastily down the stairs, and found Mr Marshall awaiting him in the hall.
“Good even, Mr Louvaine,” said he, rising: “I had the honour this evening to wait on my Lady your grandmother, and was desired to drop a word to you as I went home, to the effect that your friends have a mind to speak with you on some matter of import. Her Ladyship bids you, the first opportunity you can make, to visit the White Bear.”