On entering her home, about one o'clock, Mrs. Bing received a letter from the hand of Martha.
"Phyllis told me to give you this as soon as you returned," said the girl.
"What does this mean?" Mrs. Bing whispered to herself, as she tore open the envelope.
Her face grew pale and her hands trembled as she read the letter.
"Dearest Mamma," it began. "I am going to Hazelmead for luncheon with Gordon King. I couldn't ask you because I didn't know where you were. We have waited an hour. I am sure you wouldn't want me to miss having a lovely time. I shall be home before five. Don't tell father! He hates Gordon so.
"Phyllis."
"The boy who insulted her! My God!" Mrs. Bing exclaimed in a whisper. She hurried to the door of the butler's pantry. Indignation was in the sound of her footsteps.
"Martha!" she called.
Martha came.
"Tell James to bring the big car at once. I'm going to Hazelmead."