“I’m afraid I’m not very tactful,” Lisle confessed. “He’ll see what I’m after.”
“It’s not very likely. Talk as if you considered him a man of experience. It’s fortunate that you can be of help in this case, because I think some Canadian mining shares are to be the latest deal. From what Jim said it looks as if Batley was to give him some information about them on Wednesday, when Gladwyne and he are expected at Marple’s. Can’t you come? I understand you have been asked.”
“Yes,” promised Lisle. “If I have an opportunity, I’ll see what can be done.”
Bella rose and smiled at him.
“We’ll go back; I’m comforted already. You’re not profuse, but one feels that you will keep a promise.”
They walked across the lawn, Bella now conversing in an animated strain about unimportant matters, though it did not occur to Lisle that this was for the benefit of the lookers-on. On approaching the tea-table, she adroitly secured possession of a chair which another lady who stood higher in her hostess’s esteem was making for, and sitting down chatted cheerfully with Mrs. Gladwyne. Lisle was conscious of some amusement as he watched her. She was clever and her courage appealed to him; but presently he saw Millicent and strolled toward where she was standing. She spoke to him, but he thought she was not quite so gracious as she had been before he went away.