Sir Roland gaped at him. “Mustn’t make this a shooting affair, Pel. Sister’s reputation! Monstrous delicate matter.”
He broke off, for the door had opened.
“Captain Heron!” announced the footman.
There was a moment’s amazed silence. Captain Heron walked in, and pausing on the threshold, glanced smilingly round. “Well, Horry, don’t look at me as though you thought I was a ghost!” he said.
“Ghosts!” exclaimed the Viscount. “We’ve had enough of them. What brings you to town, Edward?”
Horatia had sprung up out of her chair. “Edward! Oh, have you brought L-Lizzie?”
Captain Heron shook his head. “No, I’m sorry, my dear, but Elizabeth is still in Bath. I am only in town for a few days.”
Horatia embraced him warmly. “Well, n-never mind. I am so very g-glad to see you, Edward. Oh, do you know Sir Roland P-Pommeroy?”
“I believe I have not that pleasure,” said Captain Heron, exchanging bows with Sir Roland. “Is Rule from home, Horry?”
“Yes, thank g-goodness!” she answered. “Oh, I d-don’t mean that, but I am in a d-dreadful fix, you see. Have you had luncheon?”