‘Craik’s right, Mrs Lawford; it’s not a bit of good waiting. Bethany would stick there till midnight if any old woman’s spiritual state could keep her going so long. Here we all are, and at any moment we may be interrupted. Mind you, I promise nothing—only that there shall be no scene. But here I am, and if he does come knocking and ringing and lunging out in the disgusting manner he—well, all I ask is permission to speak for you. ‘Pon my soul, to think what you must have gone through! It isn’t the place for ladies just now—honestly it ain’t.’
‘Besides, supposing the romantic lady of the pony-carriage has friends? Are you a pugilist, Mr Craik?’
‘I hope I could give some little account of myself, Mrs Lovat; but you need have no anxiety about that.’
‘There, Mr Danton. So as there is not the least cause for anxiety even if poor Arthur should return to his earthly home, may we share your dreadful story at once, Sheila; and then, perhaps, hear Mr Bethany’s exposition of it when he does arrive? We are amply guarded.’
‘Honestly, you know, you are a bit of a sceptic, Mrs Lovat,’ pleaded Danton playfully. ‘I’ve seen him.’
‘And seeing is disbelieving, I suppose. Now then, Sheila.’
‘I don’t think there’s the least chance of Arthur returning to-night,’ said Sheila solemnly. ‘I am perfectly well aware it’s best to be as cheerful as one can—and as resolved; but I think, Bettie, when even you know the whole horrible secret, you won’t think Mr Danton was—was horrified for nothing. The ghastly, the awful truth is that my husband—there is no other word for it—is—possessed!’
‘“Possessed,” Sheila! What in the name of all the creeps is that?’
‘Well, I dare say Mr Craik will explain it much better than I can. By a devil, dear.’ The voice was perfectly poised and restrained, and Mr Craik did not see fit for the moment to embellish the definition.
Lawford, with an almost wooden immobility, listened on.