When Mensmore reached the _White Heather_ he found Lady Browne and Phyllis dressed for a drive before dinner. Sir William seized the opportunity to cross-examine his daughter's suitor as to his means. Phyllis was an only child, and her father did not propose that she should live in penury, whatever the financial position of her husband might be. He liked Mensmore, and had ascertained by private inquiries that his social position was good. "His father was a Major-General," said his informant, "who lost his savings by speculation, and was unable to maintain his son in a crack cavalry corps, so the youngster resigned and went to America to try to better himself. There was a daughter, too, by the first wife, a very charming woman, who, when the crash came, was supposed to have gone on the stage. But I have never heard of her since." So far, the credentials were not bad; but Sir William thought it his duty to ascertain definite particulars. Mensmore was quite candid with him. "I have been somewhat of a rolling stone," he said, "but I am glad to believe that people have never had cause to think ill of me. At times, my affairs have been at a desperate stage, but I hope such periods have passed forever. I have already spoken to you about the Springbok Mine--" The old gentleman nodded. "Well, this morning I have received very satisfactory news from America," and he handed over Corbett's letter for perusal. "Yes," agreed Sir William, "these things promise well. We will look into them when we reach England. Meanwhile, I give my provisional sanction to my daughter's engagement. She is a good girl, Mensmore. She will be a true and excellent wife. I think you are worthy of her, and I hope that whatever clouds may have darkened your life will now pass away. You two ought to be happy." "We will, sir," said Mensmore fervently. "By the way, where is your sister? Is she in England or abroad?" Mensmore had been expecting this question. He was prepared for it. "Mrs. Hillmer is my half-sister," he explained. "I have not seen much of her since--since an unhappy marriage she contracted some years ago." "Indeed. Is her husband alive?" "I can hardly tell you. I believe so. But she does not live with him. She is well provided for, but it was partly on account of this matter that I came to the Riviera for the winter. To tell the truth, I quarrelled with her about it." "Ah, well. Her troubles need not affect Phyllis and you, except to give you warning. And take my advice. Never interfere between husband and wife. However good your motive, ill is sure to come of it." In the growing dusk Sir William Browne did not note his companion's embarrassment in discussing this topic. Mensmore was essentially an honorable man, and he detested the necessity which forced him to permit false inferences to be drawn from his words. Yet there was no help for it. He was compelled to suffer for the faults of another.