“It is scandalous,” the Earl cried hotly, but Gaunt only smiled. In fact he had just left his wife and could still feel her kiss upon his lips, so these troubles were things that did not matter.
When Edward Drake came in, the Earl at once tackled him.
“I understand, sir, that you are Gaunt’s adviser?”
“Why do you say that?” Drake asked quickly.
“He has probably been talking to Lady Ethel,” Gaunt answered quickly.
“If you have any influence with Mr. Gaunt, pray induce him to reconsider his decision. As his near relative, I wish him to do two things—to stamp out these vermin who are attacking him, and to cease this Congo agitation. Don’t you agree with me that I am only reasonable?” the Earl asked warmly.
“No. I know the whole facts of the Amanti business. Gaunt did wrong, and he must suffer for his wrong-doing. As to the Congo, he would dishonor himself if he turned back,” Drake answered quietly.
“You speak as a clergyman?” the Earl cried angrily.
“I speak as a Christian and a man. May I suggest that you allow Mr. Gaunt to manage his own affairs? For I assure you that he is quite capable of doing so.”
Lord Lynton plainly showed his annoyance.