For a space she sat very still, attempting no rejoinder. Then, as if suddenly moved to decisive action, she rose and turned towards the lighted salon.
"It's very late," she said quickly. "I must think about getting home."
Serracauld stepped aside, and Deerehurst, who had risen with her, moved forward.
But with a swift gesture that ignored them both, she crossed the balcony and stepped through the open window.
After she had left them, the two men stood for a moment looking at each other; then, with an elaborately careless gesture, Lord Deerehurst raised his eyeglass and peered out across the dark canal.
"Rather a pleasant little gathering to-night!" he said casually. "Rose Bathurst looks particularly well."
Serracauld's lips parted; then pursed themselves together, while he cast one comprehensive glance at his uncle's stiff back.
"Oh yes!—yes! Quite!" he rejoined vaguely; then, very swiftly, he turned and hurried across the salon after Clodagh.
She was bidding her hostess good-night as he reached her side; and his attentive glance noted her heightened colour and her nervously alert manner.
"To-morrow night, then!" Lady Frances was saying; and he saw Clodagh nod and smile.