"Perhaps not. My Di says he is some great gentleman."
"I perceive that your Di is by nature suspicious. Why does she think that?"
"You will see. Di, love, here is Mr. Carr trying to make me believe that he is a highwayman!"
Diana came up to them smiling.
"I fear he teases you, aunt. Do you remember this, sir?" Into Jack's hands she put his Grace of Andover's sword.
Carstares took it, surprised, and glanced casually at the hilt. Then he started up.
"Why, 'tis his sword. And I thought 'twas left on the roadside. Can it be—did you bring it, mademoiselle?"
She dropped him a curtsey, and laughed.
"You are surprised, sir? You demanded the sword, so I naturally supposed that you required it. Therefore I brought it home."
"'Twas monstrous thoughtful of you then. I dared not hope that it had not been forgotten. I am very grateful—"