Mr. Mackintosh considered a moment or two. Jack made an impatient movement.
"I must telegraph again," said the Dean, with the air of one who has exhausted the resources of civilization.
"But, good Lord! sir—"
"Yes. I must telegraph again. As soon as I'm dressed. Or perhaps you would—"
"Office doesn't open till eight. That's no good. He'll be miles away by then."
"It's the only thing to be done," said the Dean with sudden energy. "I forbid you to take any other steps, Mr. Kirkby. I am responsible—"
"But—"
"We must not make a scandal.... What else did you propose?"
"Why—fifty things. Motor-cars; police—"
"Certainly not. We must make no scandal as he ... as he very properly says." (The Dean swallowed in his throat again. Jack thought afterwards that it must have been the memory of certain other phrases in the letter.) "So if you will be good enough to leave me instantly, Mr. Kirkby, I will finish my dressing and deal with the matter."