At this moment the drawing-room door opened and Colonel Bellairs came in. He often came to tea at "The Towers," though the meeting seldom passed off without a sharp brush with Lady Blore.
"Draw up that chair, Algernon," said that lady, with grim but instant cordiality. "The tea will be ready in a moment."
Colonel Bellairs looked more floridly handsome than usual. He was evidently in a state of supreme self-satisfaction.
"Fine day," he said, "for the time of year."
At this moment a small parchment face, and bent figure leaning on a stick, might have been seen peering in through the closed windows. Sir John looked dispassionately at the family group, and shook his head. Then he hobbled back to his chair under the cedar. Tea was evidently a meal to be dispensed with this afternoon.
"I have news for you," said Colonel Bellairs, expanding his chest.
Lady Blore held the tea-pot suspended.
"Everard Constable—Lossiemouth, I should say—is at this moment sitting in the drawing-room at Priesthope, alone with Magdalen."
Colonel Bellairs was not disappointed in the effect of his words on his audience.
Aunt Aggie trembled and looked proudly guilty. Lady Blore put down the tea-pot suddenly, and said, "Thank God!"