"But, at any rate, you will be back very shortly?"
"I do not know, my child."
"The countess expects you to make Cameron Court your home while you remain in the neighborhood."
"Lady Hurstmonceux has not said so to me, Claudia."
"She has had no fit opportunity. Wait till you start to go."
"By the way, I must take leave of my kind hostess," said the judge, looking around the room as if in search of something or somebody.
Claudia touched the bell. A footman entered.
"Let the countess know that the judge is going."
The servant bowed and withdrew, and Lady Hurstmonceux entered.
"Going so soon, Judge Merlin?" she said.