"I have not the slightest intention of what you call dissembling. If you suppose I was the donor, you are under a great delusion. I don't think I ever gave any living creature even ten thousand pence; I have far too just a sense of the value of money."
It was Mr Coventry's turn to look astonished.
"Then if--if it wasn't you--"
"Who was it? That I cannot tell you. Someone, I should say, with more money than sense."
"But--but the tip for Ceruleans?"
"I have not the least notion what you're talking about. But I may tell you this: I myself only received what you call a 'tip' for Ceruleans this morning."
"The--the deuce you did!"
"Possibly you are aware that one of the chief holders of Ceruleans is a lady?"
"A lady!"
"That lady happens to be my friend. This morning she called on me while I was having breakfast. During that call she gave me the information on which I acted."