Ellerey did so, and for the space of thirty seconds the two men gazed into each other's eyes.
"No, I do not believe it."
"To what do you refer?" Ellerey asked.
"To that card scandal of yours. I believe you are an innocent man. Why don't you prove it?"
Ellerey took up the letter which he had thrown on the table when Lord
Cloverton entered.
"Do you know Sir Charles Martin?" he asked, holding the letter out to him.
"I have heard of him. Who that is interested in English politics has not? I may live to see him Prime Minister. What, do you wish me to read this?"
"If you please." Lord Cloverton read the letter through.
"Evidently an intimate friend of yours. You could not have a better sponsor for your character. I think he gives you excellent advice."
"You would give me the same, Lord Cloverton?"