It was not only the possibility of heavy loss, but the fact he knew so well, that, when all was known, as it must be known—unless he could manage to tide it all over—it would shake his position all round.
Cold drops stood out upon his forehead as he rapidly considered all these possibilities. He saw, as in a long vista, all he cared for, all he had toiled for, swept away, and himself standing there, without a friend, the laughing-stock of the very people who now flattered him, and tried to benefit by his superior understanding on financial questions.
He seized a train-book. There was just one chance—Mr. Drayton.
His sister had mentioned him, and he felt quite certain that, as he had seen his nieces at Lornbay, he would make his way there again.
He would go there and he would manage it. There was no ruin to Mr. Drayton, and no loss of position. Supposing he lost—all the world looked upon him as an amiable fool as regarded business matters. He had no position to lose; it would not be a fall such as his own would be; and there would be no loss. It was only a temporary embarrassment.
He rang once more, and Jean saw that he was now in quite his old peremptory, masterful mood.
"Let me have something to eat at once, and tell Robert to pack my things again. Why he does not answer my bell I cannot make out. What is the use of him?"
"Not knowing you would be home so soon, Robert went to do some messages; but I expect him in in a moment or two. Then I'll not sheet your bed?"
She spoke in an inquiring tone; her thrifty soul anxious not to crumple the linen now airing, if not required.
"I have to go at once. I am going to Lornbay. I suppose you have no message?"