Lady Ethel was idly knocking about the billiard balls, and she did not look up when he entered.
“Where is my brother?” he asked.
“He suddenly remembered that he had an appointment at the war office,” she answered, as she deftly made a cannon. “This is a good chance for the lesson I promised to give you,” she said demurely.
Drake went to the rack from which he took the first cue that came to hand.
“I am afraid that you will find me rather a duffer,” he remarked.
“Your education has been neglected—in many ways.” Then she gave him a quick look which he failed to catch. “You may break.”
But Drake’s hand trembled, and he made a miscue.
“Try again,” she said lightly, and placed the ball back in balk.
Again he tried to make the shot, with a similar result.
“It is no use, I am an awful duffer,” he said apologetically.