Mr. Triggs's hands dropped to his side as he gazed at her in blank astonishment. "But, me dear——" he began.
"The engagement has been broken off," announced Patricia.
Mr. Triggs's jaw dropped, and he gazed at Patricia in amazement. "Broken off," he repeated. "Engagement broken off. Why, damn 'im, I'll punch 'is 'ead," and he made an effort to rise.
Patricia laughed, a little hysterically.
"You mustn't blame Lord Peter," she said. "It is I who have broken it off."
Mr. Triggs collapsed into the chair again. "You broke it off," he exclaimed. "You broke off the engagement with a nice young chap like 'im?"
Patricia nodded.
"Well, I'm blowed!" Mr. Triggs sat staring at Patricia as if she had suddenly become transformed into a dodo. After nearly a minute's contemplation of Patricia, a smile slowly spread itself over his features, like the sun breaking through a heavy cloud-laden sky.
"You been 'avin' a quarrel, that's what's the matter," he announced with a profound air of wisdom.
Patricia shook her head with an air of finality; but Mr. Triggs continued to nod his head wisely.