At this moment Ponsonby announced that dinner was served, and at the same time handed a telegram to his master.
“Hulloa, what’s this?”
He opened it and gave a cry. His heart beat so violently that he was obliged to sit down.
“Papa, what’s the matter?” cried Winnie.
“It’s so stupid of me, I’m quite upset. Get me a glass of sherry, Ponsonby.”
“What is it, Theodore?” asked Lady Sophia, anxiously.
He waved his family aside and would not speak till Ponsonby brought the wine. He drank a glass of sherry. A sigh of relief issued from his lips. He waited till Ponsonby had left the room, and then slowly rose to his feet.
“Sophia, you will be gratified to learn that the Government has offered me the vacant bishopric of Sheffield.”
“Oh, papa, I’m so glad,” said Winnie.
Lionel seized his father’s hand and wrung it warmly.