“Why, Mary, do I have such a lot of chuckle-headed ignoramuses in my employ? I ask you—why?”
She replied gravely:
“Because, dear, you love to have your own people about you, which is so nice and endearing of you.”
“Thankless swine! I feel a draught. Is a window open? Yes. Who opened it?”
He shut the window and returned to the sofa upon which Lady Pomfret was sitting. He sat beside her, took her hand in his, and patted it gently.
“Now, Mary, I sent for you because I want you to see Ben and bring him to his senses.”
“Oh-h-h-h!”
“I am prepared to be magnanimous. I must make allowance for poor Ben’s irritability and quick temper. I have no doubt whatever that he is thoroughly ashamed of himself. And well aware as I am of his shortcomings, I have never questioned his devotion to you. Will you see him?”
“If you wish it, Geoffrey.”
“I do wish it. You can tell him that I am prepared to accept an apology. I make this concession for your sake, my dear.”