"No," I said coolly; "I have so many hidden talents."
York, who seemed to feel that the atmosphere was strained, made a tactful effort to clear it.
"Car all right?" he inquired sympathetically.
"I was just testing it," I said, "and, in the course of doing so, I as nearly as possible slaughtered Miss de Rosen."
Mercia smiled with delightful composure. "I have always told Mr. Northcote he drives much too fast. I thought I should be safe from him in the wilds of Suffolk, however."
"You're staying here?" put in Lady Baradell, in a smooth voice.
"Quite close by with some friends," answered Mercia carelessly, "and that reminds me I ought to be getting back, or they'll be wondering what's happened to me. Good-bye, Mr. Northcote; thank you so much for your ride. You must come over and see us before you go away. Good-bye."
She smiled graciously to the others, and turned as if to go.
"May I have the pleasure of seeing you back, Miss de Rosen?" I suggested. "I have been guilty of bringing you all this way out of your road."
"Oh no," she said, laughing. "I can take a short cut across the fields. I am quite used to walking about the country alone, really."