Marlborough stood thoughtfully regarding the two men before him. Lord Claud returned his gaze by one full and calm; Tom's eyes glowed and kindled by reason of the keenness of the surging thoughts within.
"You are he whom men call Lord Claud," said the Duke thoughtfully. "You know that there are strange whispers afloat about you, my lord?"
"I know it well."
"And you have never denied those whispers?"
Lord Claud smiled slightly.
"My sword has answered a few taunts. For the rest, I heed them not overmuch. If we began to take cognizance of the chatterings of this world of magpies, we might have a duel to fight every day of our lives."
Marlborough smiled slightly at the nonchalance of the reply.
"That is all you have to say to me, Lord Claud?"
"That is all, your Grace."
For a moment there was silence, whilst the Duke bent his eyes upon the ground; then he looked straight at Tom.