Karl Ludwig jollies Oswald about those friends who seemed so surprised to see him.
"Der voman vas luffly, und dot chentlemans vas bedder looging den mosd mens."
At appointed time Oswald enters the hotel and sends up his card. An invitation to call at the Randolph rooms promptly follows. Conducted there, he is admitted.
The gracious, kindly greetings do much to relieve his embarrassment, but Oswald knows that a frank statement should be made, as preliminary to any further courtesies. On his part have been many strange acts. This is a fateful emergency, but he will meet it manfully and without dissimulation or deceit.
His opening is characteristic.
"My conduct has been inconsistent and contradictory, unsatisfactory to myself, and, I have often suspected, cowardly, yet there was no consciousness at any time of intentionally having wronged any human being."
Esther's quick sympathies prompt the reply:
"Father and I both believe you innocent, Mr. Langdon!"
This burst of compassionate confidence pleases yet slightly disconcerts Oswald.
Giving his daughter a look of mildest remonstrance, Sir Donald mutely invites Oswald to continue.