How long the Professor would have gone on descanting on the histrionic capabilities of Frances Hest it is hard to say, but his eloquence was cut short by the entrance of Mrs. Gail, who swept an apologetic curtsey to the gentlemen for her sudden appearance. She then whispered to her husband, and Vernon caught a word or two about "a bill--man at the back door--must have his money," etc. Gail looked perturbed and rose quickly.
"A small domestic concern, gentlemen," he said, stalking to the door followed by his wife. "Excuse me while I adjust matters. I shall return soon," and he made his exit with Mrs. Gail in a most approved stage fashion.
When they were alone the Colonel asked a question: "Can you get this engagement for Miss Hest?"
"Oh, yes. Lady Brankworth is a great friend of mine and is always giving parties. There will be no difficulty in my making good my word. The old man seems to be all right and his wife also. Whatever devilry the Hests may be up to, that worthy couple know nothing about it."
Scarcely were the words out of his mouth when the door opened quickly and a man entered the room in great haste. Vernon sprang to his feet.
"Maunders once more!" He cried; "The very man I wish to see."
And Maunders it was, looking like a trapped tiger, furious and despairing.
Maunders recognised his peril in a moment and immediately turned to retreat. But Vernon was too quick for him and leaped between him and the door. When it was closed and Vernon had his back against it Maunders glanced desperately at the one window of the room. Here Colonel Towton, now on his feet, barred his way, so there was nothing for it but to surrender to a strength he could not fight against. With extraordinary self-control the scamp pulled himself together and demanded in a surly tone what his captors meant by behaving towards him in this way.
"Sit down," said Vernon without deigning to reply directly; "you have to explain matters before you leave this room."
"I have nothing to explain," muttered Maunders doggedly, but nevertheless judged it wise to obey. "You had better take care what you are about."
"I'll take care of myself and of you also," replied Vernon composedly.
"I ask you, Colonel Towton, if this is the way for one gentleman to treat another?" demanded the trapped rogue.
