‘It seems to me that you know far too much about love-making, Master Charley.’

‘Who was the first to give me lessons?’

The only answer to this was a pinch in the soft part of his arm.

Lady Dimsdale controlled herself by a supreme effort. Then she crossed slowly towards where Sir Frederick was sitting.

He rose as she approached him. ‘You have kept your promise bravely,’ he said in a low voice.

‘Why should not a woman keep a promise as bravely as a man?’

‘It is I who am driving you away.’

‘You flatter yourself, Sir Frederick.’

He shook his head in grave dissent. He seemed strangely moved. He gazed earnestly at her. ‘There is a tear in your eye, Lady Dimsdale,’ he said. ‘I am conquered. I revoke the promise I caused you to give me yesterday.’

‘Oh, Sir Frederick!’