"Well," he said briefly, "you saw her?"
"I saw her. It is a beautiful face, a proud face, a truthful face, and yet—"
"Go on," he said impatiently. "Don't try to spare me. I am growing accustomed to unpleasant truths."
"I may be wrong, but something in her face tells me she does not love you, and," under her breath, "never will."
"It will come in time. With or without love, she is willing to be my wife—that is happiness enough for the present."
"You told her all?"
"I told her my father was alive and insane—no more. It will make no difference in our plans—none. We are to be married the first of September. The secret is safe with her."
The door opened, and Lady Helena came hastily in.
"If you wish to catch the 12.50 train, Inez," she said, "you must go at once. It is a long drive from this to the station. The brougham is waiting—shall I accompany you?"
"I will accompany her," said Sir Victor. "You had better return to our guests. They will begin to feel themselves neglected."