‘You rate my influence too highly, Sir Frederick,’ interrupted Laura hastily, while a warm flush mounted to her cheek. ‘In a matter like this, Mr Boyd probably knows his own business better than any one.’
The Baronet, in nowise disconcerted, turned to Estelle: ‘To run away from us so soon would be cruel indeed.’ Then to Mrs Bowood: ‘I am sure we are all anxious for the pleasure of Mrs Boyd’s further acquaintance. We want to know her better—we want to hear the story of her adventures, of her wonderful escape from shipwreck.’
‘A dangerous man this—I hate him!’ muttered Estelle between her teeth.
‘Yes—of course—the story of the shipwreck,’ cried impulsive Mrs Bowood. ‘I had forgotten that for the moment. We are all dying to hear it.’
Estelle’s eyes were on Lady Dimsdale. ‘The woman he kissed says nothing,’ was her unspoken comment. Then turning to Mrs Bowood, she said: ‘The shipwreck? O yes, I will tell you all about the shipwreck—but not to-day. I am a little tired.’
‘I am sure you must be, and hungry too. We have all been very remiss,’ replied the mistress of Rosemount. Then putting her arm into that of Estelle, she added: ‘But your tray will be ready by this time, and Mr Boyd must join you when he comes down. Meanwhile, I want to introduce you to Captain Bowood.—Laura, dear, you are coming?’
‘I will join you in a few minutes,’ was Lady Dimsdale’s reply. She wanted to be alone.
Mrs Bowood and Estelle quitted the room together. Sir Frederick lingered behind for a moment.
‘What a happy man our friend Boyd must be to-day.—Don’t you think so, dear Lady Dimsdale?’ he said with a smirk.
‘Very happy, Sir Frederick,’ answered Laura, looking him steadily in the eyes. ‘Who can doubt it?’