“I can’t believe it’s true,” he muttered. “I can’t believe it.”
There was a knock at the door, and Arthur gave a startled cry.
“Perhaps she’s come back.”
He opened it hurriedly, his face suddenly lit up by expectation; but it was Dr Porhoët.
“How do you do?” said the Frenchman. “What is happening?”
He looked round and caught the dismay that was on the faces of Arthur and Susie.
“Where is Miss Margaret? I thought you must be giving a party.”
There was something in his manner that made Susie ask why.
“I received a telegram from Mr Haddo this morning.”
He took it from his pocket and handed it to Susie. She read it and passed it to Arthur. It said: