"It is sad news for me," she sighed, wiping her pale face. "We can soon ascertain, by inquiring at the bank how much money he has drawn out. Of course, anything is better than that he should be lost."
"Of course," smiled Mr. Tiplady. "Still I don't myself see why this matter should be keeping Philip in London. It has been known to the public some days now. Shall I make the inquiry at the bank for you, Lady Cleeve?"
"If you will take the trouble. I shall be very much obliged to you."
"I may want your authority before they'll answer me. I'm not quite sure, though; they know me for Philip's good friend."
It was arranged that he should get into the fly now with Lady Cleeve. The driver was directed to stop at the bank. Mr. Tiplady went in, and came out with a serious face.
"Will they not answer you?" cried Lady Cleeve.
"Oh yes; they made no difficulty about that."
"Well! How much has he drawn out?"
"Nearly every pound he had there."
So poor Lady Cleeve had to go home with her anxiety augmented, instead of lessened. Suppose Philip, in his dismay at the loss of all his money, should--should have done something rash!