Desmond looked his friend steadily in the eyes.
"You'll not refuse, though," he said quietly, and Paul shook his head. By way of thanks, Theo laid his hand impulsively upon Wyndham's arm.
"I'm sure you understand, dear old man, that it's not easy or pleasant for me to part with Diamond, or to shut you out and refuse your help; but I can't endure that the rest of them should think me slack or careless of their interests."
"They know you far too well to think anything of the sort. By the way, what arrangements are you making for Lahore?"
"None at all. Honor will go, I daresay; and I shall run down for the polo. But fifteen days' leave is out of the question."
Paul turned sharply in his saddle.
"Now, look here, Theo—you're going too far. I make no offer this time. I simply insist!"
Desmond hesitated. The thought of Evelyn was knocking at his heart.
"You know I hate accepting that sort of thing," he objected, "even from you."