“Object, sir! I? I am only surprised.”
“My sister,” explained his lordship, “considers that it is time I took a wife.”
Mr Gisborne had a great respect for the Earl’s sister, but he had yet to learn that her advice carried any weight with his lordship. “Indeed, sir,” he said, and added diffidently: “It is Miss Winwood?”
“Miss Winwood,” agreed the Earl. “You perceive how important it is that I should not forget to present myself in South Street at—did I say three o’clock?”
“I will put you in mind of it, sir,” said Mr Gisborne dryly.
The door opened to admit a footman in blue livery. “My lord, a lady has called,” he said hesitatingly.
Mr Gisborne turned to stare, for whatever Rule’s amusements abroad might be, his inamoratas did not wait upon him in Grosvenor Square.
The Earl raised his brows. “I am afraid—I am very much afraid—that you are—shall we say—a little stupid, my friend,” he said. “But perhaps you have already denied me?”
The lackey looked flustered, and answered: “The lady bade me tell your lordship that Miss Winwood begs the favour of a word with you.
There was a moment’s silence. Mr Gisborne had with difficulty checked the exclamation that rose to his lips, and now affected to arrange the papers on his desk.