'Well,' said Dick wearily, 'it is much better that Angus should not come here again.'
Nevertheless, when Dick returned to London he carried in his pocket an invitation to Rob to spend the following Saturday at the Tawny Owl. It was a very nice note in Mary Abinger's handwriting, and Dick would have liked to drop it over the Hungerfield Bridge. He gave it to Rob, however, and stood on the defensive.
The note began, 'Dear Mr. Angus, Mrs. Meredith would be very pleased if you could——'
The blood came to Rob's face as he saw the handwriting, but it went as quickly.
'They ask me down next Saturday,' Rob said bluntly to Dick, 'but you know why I can't go.'
'You had better come,' miserable Dick said, defying himself.
'She is to marry Dowton, is she not?' Rob asked, but with no life in his voice.
Dick turned away his head, to leave the rest to fate.
'So, of course I must not go,' Rob continued bravely.
Dick did not dare to look him in the face, but Rob put his hand on the shoulder of Mary's brother.