“Take your time,” said Collins pleasantly. “Have a whiskey and soda?” He rose from the table and went to the sideboard.
“Bother, there’s none here. Miss Mabel, may I act as butler and fetch some, we don’t want to send for old John just now?”
“Certainly,” she said with a smile.
He went out.
Sanders spoke for the first time since his gross insinuation.
“I will go. After what has happened you will not want me to remain.”
“That is a matter for you to decide,” said Mabel stiffly.
“Oh, that’s all nonsense,” said Allery, “you two are not going to let this business upset you. It only needs an apology, and I am sure Sanders will give that. He was upset, and perhaps a little jealous,” he added.
Sanders coloured.
“Your remark is in doubtful taste,” he said. “I don’t think any apology would serve in a case like this.” He rose.