Helen cast an exasperated glance at him, but before she could retort, the butler came into the room, and said austerely: "I beg your pardon, madam, but Superintendent Hannasyde has called, and wishes to see the master. I have informed him that Mr. North is not yet down. Would you have me wake the master, or shall I request the Superintendent to wait?"
"The Superintendent?" she said numbly. "Yes. Yes, you must tell the master, of course. Show the Superintendent into the library. I'll come."
"What for?" asked Sally, when the butler had withdrawn. "He didn't ask for you."
"It doesn't matter. I must see him. I must find out what he wants. Oh dear, if only I could think!"
"Can't you?" asked Neville solicitously. "Not at all?"
"For the Lord's sake, drink your tea, and don't agitate!" said Sally. "If I were you I'd let John play his own hand."
Helen set her cup and saucer down with ajar. John is not your husband!" she said fiercely, and walked out of the room.
"Now we can resume the even tenor of our way," said Neville, with a sigh of relief.
"I can't," replied Sally, finishing her coffee in a hurry. "I must go with her, and try to stop her doing anything silly."
"I love people who go all out for lost causes," said Neville. "Are you a member of the White Rose League too?"