“Yes, for she will know that Lady Mildred’s happiness will lie in you. I sometimes think that you do not do justice to your sister-in-law. She is not the frivolous woman you imagine her to be.”
“I fear that you are prejudiced in her favor.”
“Good-night,” said Drake hurriedly.
Gaunt held out his hand and a smile flitted across his face.
“My friend, I am not blind, and I wish you more luck than I have had,” he said quietly.
CHAPTER XXXIII
Lady Mildred’s destination was the family dower house, the use of which her brother had given her as a country retreat. It was several hours’ drive from London, and they were all tired out by the time that they arrived. During the journey the sisters spoke very seldom, and it was not until they had dined that any serious conversation took place. Then it was Lady Ethel who broached the subject.
“I suppose you will write to John to-night and tell him where you are?” she began nervously.
“No,” was the uncompromising answer.
“I won’t presume to advise you, Mildred, but he will be very anxious, and after all you are judging him without hearing his side,” Lady Ethel answered with quiet persistence.