The arrival of the boat at Chelsea pier reminded him that he must land; thence he drove home. On reaching the house he found Mrs. Birks there; she had called to see his father, and was in the hall on the point of leaving as he entered. She stepped up to him, and spoke in a low voice.
'What is the matter with Beatrice?'
'The matter? How?'
'She seems out of sorts. Come round and see her, will you?'
'I really can't just now,' Wilfrid replied. 'Do you mean that she is not well?'
'Something seems to be upsetting her. Why can't you come and see her?'
'I can't this evening. I have an engagement.'
'Very well. But you had better come soon, I think.'
'I don't understand you,' said Wilfrid, with some show of impatience. 'Is she ill?'
'Not exactly ill, I suppose. Of course I mustn't interfere. No doubt you understand.'