Philip got away from his mother and the house as quickly as possible, walking along the road like a man in a dream. The thousand pounds, or the greater portion of what was left of it, had gone out of his hands to Captain Lennox. Or, rather, to that blessed company that the Captain was just now so eager over. Early though it was, Philip must see him; and he bent his steps towards The Lilacs.
As he went along, the thought struck him that he had not seen Lennox about very lately. The last time Philip called, he was told by the man-servant that the Captain had gone out for the day, and Mrs. Ducie was ill with a cold.
It was a servant-maid who answered Philip's nervous ring at the house this morning. Her master was in London, she said.
"In London!" exclaimed Philip. "When did he go?"
"Rather more than a week ago, I think, sir," was the girl's answer.
"I want to see Captain Lennox particularly," rejoined Philip.
"I dare say he will be back soon now, sir. I've not heard that he means to make a long stay this time."
Philip pondered.
"Can I see Mrs. Ducie? Ask her to pardon the early hour and see me for a minute--if she will be so kind."
"Mrs. Ducie can't see you now, sir," dissented the maid; "she is not yet up. Her cold keeps very bad, and she hardly comes down at all."