"Yes, I remember it distinctly. Was it just—a manner of speaking?"
"Just a manner of speaking.... You may call it that, mademoiselle. Do you not think that he looks rather ducal?"
"I tried not to think of him at all. I hate him!"
"Almost I begin to pity this Mr. Everard," quoth Jack.
The dimple peeped out.
"Then 'tis most ungallant of you, sir!" she reproved. "Do you know Mr. Everard?"
"I have certainly seen him before, madam."
Diana sat back on her heels and eyed him wonderingly.
"I believe you do not wish to answer me," she said slowly. "Tell me, is 'Everard' that man's real name?"
My lord twisted the ring on his finger uneasily. He did not feel himself at liberty to expose Belmanoir, and if he should reveal his true identity, it was quite possible that Mr. Beauleigh might seek him out, in which case he himself might be recognised. He looked up.