"Indeed. I presume you never considered that it was necessary to consult me?"
"I intended to do so, father, when--when Mrs. Belswin returned."
"Ah! Mrs. Belswin then knows all about this affair?"
"Yes."
"And is going to ask me to consent to the marriage?"
"Yes."
Sir Rupert walked up and down the room for a few minutes, then, pausing before his daughter, spoke deliberately.
"I'm afraid you may think me somewhat inquisitive, but I should like to know something about this Mr. Maxwell. Where did you meet him?"
"At Marsh-on-the-Sea."
"Indeed! And having fallen in love with you there, he followed you up here."