"She must come at once!" said Lady Ogram, starting up. "Would the Crows understand a telegram?"
"The Rookes, you mean? I think it would be better to write. Naturally, I have not let them know your name. At first I found Mr. Rooke rather disposed to stand upon his dignity; but a firm of Northampton solicitors vouched for my bona fides, and then things were smoother. No, I don't think I would telegraph."
"Then go to Northampton, and bring the girl back with you."
"If you wish it."
"When is there a train?—Oh, there's the luncheon bell. Of course you must eat. Come and eat. I have some one staying here that I should like you to know—our Liberal candidate at the next election."
"Oh, so you have found one?"
"Of course I have. Didn't I write to tell you? A lot of people dine here this evening to meet him. Perhaps you could stay over night? Yes, now I come to think of it, I should like you to dine with us. You shall go to Northampton to-morrow. Write to Rooky this afternoon." Lady Ogram grew sportive. "Prepare him. Come along, now, to lunch; you look hungry."
"Just one word. You are quite sure it will be wise to bring this young lady at once to Rivenoak?"
"You say she knows how to behave herself!"
"Certainly. But the change in her position will be rather sudden, don't you think? And—if I may venture—how can you be sure that Miss Tomalin will recommend herself to you?"