Collins drew in a quick breath. “You are quite certain about that?”
“Oh, yes, sir, I was standing by the door. I was afraid he would come out, and there would be blows.”
“Why?”
“Because, sir, Mr. Eric and Sir James had had a terrible set-to the night before.”
“Do you mean they came to blows?”
“Oh, no, sir, I meant a figure of speech. Only words.”
“What about?”
“Well, sir, it isn’t my business, but I think it was over Miss Mabel.”
“Go on,” said Collins.
“Then Mr. Eric says, ‘Won’t you see me for a minute?’ ”