“Who?”
“That there countess, sir, from Portland Place.”
The Conte turned excitedly to Lady Grayson.
“She must not find me here,” he whispered.
“Show the lady up,” said Armstrong recklessly, for, whoever it might be, it would rid him of his visitors.
“Yes, sir;” and the door closed.
“My dear Mr Dale,” said the Conte quickly, “I must speak plainly. I have reasons for not wishing to meet my wife here this morning. You will not ask me to explain, but let me step in here for a few minutes till she is gone. Remain here and meet her,” he said in a low voice to Lady Grayson, and as steps were heard upon the stairs, he stepped quickly to the inner door.