The man held his ground, unmoved. His bearing was a curious blend of diffidence and aggressiveness. He was determined, but apologetic. A hired assassin of the Middle Ages, resolved to do his job loyally, yet conscious of causing inconvenience to his victim, might have looked the same.
'I am sorry,' he said, 'but I must ask you to let me have the boy,
Mrs Ford.'
Cynthia was herself again now. She raked the intruder with the cool stare which had so disconcerted Lord Mountry.
'Who is this gentleman?' she asked languidly.
The intruder was made of tougher stuff than his lordship. He met her eye with quiet firmness.
'My name is Mennick,' he said. 'I am Mr Elmer Ford's private secretary.'
'What do you want?' said Mrs Ford.
'I have already explained what I want, Mrs Ford. I want Ogden.'
Cynthia raised her eyebrows.
'What does he mean, Nesta? Ogden is not here.'