She knew why Mayne had come. He wanted to know how his conspiracy was progressing. Very well; he would get nothing out of her.
Lance hurried to her. "So you've been to look at old Brooke's ancestral acres?"
"Yes." She sat down after greeting the company. Her tone was colourless.
"Dear," said Brenda, "I hope you've had some food; I told them to keep it hot."
"Oh, yes, thanks. How's Pater getting on?"
"He's very anxious to hear what you've done."
"Oh, I don't know that I've done very much."
"You look tired."
"I am. Such a horrid journey. I wish Pater could have come."
"Why, was Captain Brooke not cordial?" asked Brenda, in surprise.