The gentleman gave his low laugh, and produced a snuffbox from one pocket, and held a pinch first to one nostril and then to the other.
Peregrine advanced upon him, and said stormily: “Sir, I shall ask you to explain yourself!”
“You forgot to tell him that I kissed you, Clorinda,” murmured the gentleman.
“What?” shouted Peregrine.
“For heaven’s sake be quiet!” snapped his sister.
Peregrine ignored her. “You will meet me for this, sir! I hoped I might come upon you again, and I have. And now to find that you have dared to insult my sister. You shall hear from me!”
A look of amusement crossed the gentleman’s face. “Are you proposing to fight a duel with me?” he inquired.
“Where and when you like!” said Peregrine.
The gentleman raised his brows. “My good boy, that is very heroic, but do you really think that I cross swords with every country nobody who chooses to be offended with me?”
“Now, Julian, Julian, what are you about?” demanded a voice from the doorway into the coffee-room. “Oh, I beg pardon, ma’am! I beg pardon!” Lord Worcester came into the hall with a glass in his hand, and paused, irresolute.