"But speak, Father! Speak!"
Sir Maurice sat down leisurely and crossed his legs.
"At the present moment Cleone is betrothed. Very much so," he added, chuckling. "I am about to put the whole matter into your hands."
"My hands? She wants my help?"
"Not at all. She is insistent that you shall not be appealed to. In fact, she was almost frantic when I suggested it."
"Then does she not want to marry Brenderby?"
"Certainly not. But she will do if you fail to intervene."
Philip flung out his hands.
"But tell me, sir! What happened last night?"
"Sit down and be quiet," said Sir Maurice severely. "I am on the point of telling you."