"Oh, but Sir Maurice! A mighty soft-spoken youth—a polished gentleman, I assure you."
"Polished coxcomb!" snapped Sir Maurice. "Confound his impudence!" He turned and walked towards the arbour.
Cleone rose and came forward.
"Why, Sir Maurice! I did not see you!"
Sir Maurice raised both her hands to his lips.
"You were otherwise engaged, my dear. Will you present your cavalier?"
Cleone frowned upon him.
"Sir Maurice—! This is Mr. Bancroft, sir. Mr. Bancroft, Sir Maurice Jettan."
Mr. Bancroft's hat swept the ground. His powdered head was bent.
"I am delighted to renew my acquaintance with you, sir."