“It is a source of profound dismay to me that such a thing should have happened while your brother was a guest in my house,” said Lady Luttrell.
“Don’t give it a thought, ma’am!” begged Cedric. “Not your fault—always thought he would come to a bad end—might have happened anywhere!”
“Your callousness, sir, is disgusting!” proclaimed the Major, picking up his hat. “I will not remain another instant to be revolted by such a display of heartless unconcern!”
“Well, damme, who wants you to?” demanded Cedric. “Haven’t I been trying to get you to go away this past half-hour? Never met such a thick-skinned fellow in my life!”
“Escort Major Daubenay to the door, Ceddie,” Sir Richard said. “I understand that Lady Luttrell wishes to see me upon a private matter.”
“Private as you please, dear boy! Ma’am, your very obedient! After you, Major!” He bowed the Major out with a flourish, winked at Sir Richard, and went out himself.
“What an engaging scapegrace!” remarked Lady Luttrell, moving forward into the middle of the parlour. “I confess, I much disliked his brother.”
“Your dislike was shared by most of his acquaintance, ma’am. Will you not be seated?”
She took the chair he offered, and looked him over rather penetratingly. “Well, Sir Richard,” she said, perfectly mistress of the situation, “you are wondering, I dare say, why I have come to call upon you.”
“I think I know,” he replied.