She gave a little gasp of relief. In another instant Pyne would have gone, but Enid, who happened to glance through the window which opened towards the northwest, detained him.
"There is no hurry now, for sure," she said. "The Falcon is half way to Carn du by this time. I do not suppose she will return until it is too dark to do more than signal important news very briefly."
"But this is important," cried Mrs. Vansittart shrilly. "It is of the utmost importance to me."
"'Fraid it can't be helped ma'am," said Pyne civilly. "Anyhow we're not ashore yet, and I can't see that any time will be wasted."
The electric bell jangled in the room, causing Mrs. Vansittart to jump visibly.
"Oh, what is it?" she screamed.
"My father is calling one of us up," explained Constance. "It may be a message from Jack. You go, Enid."
Enid hurried away. She had scarcely reached the next floor before Mrs. Vansittart, who seemed to have moods in full compass, said sweetly:
"Convey my deep obligations to Mr. Brand, won't you, Charlie. Indeed, you might go now and write out the text of my message to your uncle. Some early opportunity of despatching it may offer."
"All right," he said in the calm way which so effectually concealed his feelings. "Shall I escort you to your room?"