“We’ll judge of that,” snapped Bernard.
“In this instance, I will judge of it,” retorted Miss Mount coolly. “It was a purely personal matter.” She steeled herself visibly for a thunderous and threatening reply. Bernard merely studied her with speculative eyes.
“Who else did Harrison quarrel with?” he asked.
The question was a surprise. Miss Mount hesitated. “He—seldom argued with the servants,” she said.
All three men smiled at this, each in his fashion.
“Aside from the servants?” Landis inquired.
“I think, if you don’t mind, I’d prefer to sit down,” said Miss Mount. “Shall we go down to the library?”
“I beg your pardon,” said Landis contritely. “How stupid to keep you talking here until you—almost—run out of evasive answers!” He smiled at her pleasantly.
Miss Mount gave him a sharp, surprised look, turned on her heel and led the way down to the library.
As soon as they were seated Landis took up the burden of questions, for Bernard appeared content to listen now.