The time was near the half-hour bell before dinner, the situation between them that of the fall of the breath to fetch words electrical. She left it to him to begin the fight, and was not sorry that she had pricked him for it.
A footman entered the room, bearer of a missive for Mr. Weyburn. Lord Ormont's groom had brought it from London.
'Send in the man,' said Lady Charlotte.
Weyburn read
'The Countess of Ormont begs Mr. Weyburn to return instantly. There has been an accident in his home. It may not be very serious. An arm—a shock to the system from a fall. Messenger informs her, fear of internal hemorrhage. Best doctors in attendance.'
He handed Lady Charlotte the letter. She humped at the first line, flashed across the remainder, and in a lowered voice asked—
'Sister in the house?'
'My mother,' Weyburn said.
The groom appeared. He knew nothing. The Countess had given him orders to spare no expense on the road to Olmer, without a minute's delay. He had ridden and driven.
He looked worn. Lady Charlotte rang the bell for her butler. To him she said—