“Freddie was weak,” said Victoria, “but he needed the money. Don't you know Mr. Vane?”
“Yes,” said Mr. Crewe, shortly, “I've been talking to him—on business.”
“Oh,” said Victoria, “I had no means of knowing. Mrs. Pomfret, I want to introduce Mr. Vane, and Miss Pomfret, Mr. Vane.”
Mrs. Pomfret, who had been hovering on the outskirts of this duel, inclined her head the fraction of an inch, but Alice put out her hand with her sweetest manner.
“When did you arrive?” she asked.
“Well, the fact is, I haven't arrived yet,” said Austen.
“Not arrived” exclaimed Alice, with a puzzled glance into Victoria's laughing eyes.
“Perhaps Humphrey will help you along,” Victoria suggested, turning to him. “He might be induced to give you his celebrated grievance about his horses.”
“I have given it to him,” said Mr. Crewe, briefly.
“Cheer up, Mr. Vane, your fortune is made,” said Victoria.