Harley surveying him, mechanically recoiled, and withdrew his arm.
Fortunately for Randal, who somehow or other felt himself slipped into a false position, he scarce knew how or why, he was here seized by the arm; and a clear, open, manly voice cried, “My dear fellow, how are you? I see you are engaged now; but look into my rooms when you can, in the course of the day.”
And with a bow of excuse for his interruption, to Lord L'Estrange, the speaker was then turning away, when Harley said:
“No, don't let me take you from your friend, Mr. Leslie. And you need not be in a hurry to see Egerton; for I shall claim the privilege of older friendship for the first interview.”
“It is Mr. Egerton's nephew, Frank Hazeldean.”
“Pray, call him back, and present me to him. He has a face that would have gone far to reconcile Timon to Athens.”
Randal obeyed; and after a few kindly words to Frank, Harley insisted on leaving the two young men together, and walked on to Downing-street with a brisker step.
Chapter X.
“That Lord L'Estrange seems a very good fellow.”
“So-so; an effeminate humorist; says the most absurd things, and fancies them wise. Never mind him. You wanted to speak to me, Frank?”