"She has come," he says, abruptly.
His wife lifts her eyes.
"Mrs Liston-Darcy—devil take her! And I am a going to see her to-night!"
Still that silent questioning gaze.
"I met Allison out there—he hasn't cut me if all the rest have; and she is to be at a party at his house. I am going."
"May I ask why? What can you possibly have to say to Mr. Darcy's heiress?"
"I shall see her, at least. They tell me she is pretty. I must own I always had a weakness for pretty and pleasant women. I must own also I never see one at home."
Her eyes flash at the sneer.
"I am quite aware, Mr. Thorndyke, of your predilection for pretty women. Haven't you paid rather dearly though for the fancy? Was the brief society of Miss Lucy West and Miss Norine Bourdon sufficient compensation for the loss of a fortune?"
He rises to his feet, his face flushing dark, angry red.