“None whatever,” said Emmeline.
Sir Bridgnorth was much touched.
“I think you had better leave him to himself,” he said. “But, since you won't, I must needs help you I'll do all I can. But I cannot proceed as expeditiously as I could desire. I have reason to believe Chetwynd is living in London under a feigned name. Since all private inquiries have proved unsuccessful, I will cause some carefully-worded advertisements to be inserted in the newspapers, that may catch his eye and bring him forward. Could he be made aware that a beautiful young lady takes an interest in him, I am sure he would speedily reappear. But fear no indiscretion on my part. Nothing shall be disclosed till the proper moment arrives.” Then, addressing Mildred, he added: “As soon as I can ascertain the amount of his debts, I will let you know.”
“Pay them, dear Sir Bridgnorth—pay them!” she rejoined.
“But they may be very large?”
“Never mind; pay them!” cried Emmeline. “Mr. Carteret shall repay you.”
“No man ever had such a chance,” exclaimed Sir Bridgnorth. “If he does not reform now, he is incorrigible.”
“I have no misgivings as to the future,” said Mildred.
“Well, I sincerely trust all will come right,” observed Sir Bridgnorth. “There seems every probability of it, I must own.”
Just then Mrs. Calverley was announced.