"That is precisely my meaning." "Humph!" "Does the idea displease you?" "Yes, and no." "Please explain what you mean by 'yes' and 'no'; the expression lacks lucidity, to say the least of it." "I mean that it would be much better for you to remain as you are; but if you do intend to commit yourself in this way, well--Miss Lambert is at least a lady." The keen eye of James examined his sister's face as she spoke, and he knew that what she said she meant. Despite all his tall talk to Bridgewater about sending his sister packing her influence upon him was very strong; thirty years of diffidence to her opinion in the minor details of life had not passed without leaving their effect upon his will; besides he, as a business man, had great admiration for her astuteness and power of dealing with things. Active opposition to his matrimonial plans would not have altered them, but it would have made him unhappy. "I am glad you think that," he said. "Give me the tea." "Mind," said Miss Hancock, as she handed the beverage, "I wash my hands of the matter; I think it distinctly unwise, considering your age, considering her age, considering everything." "Well, all that lies with me. You will be civil and kind to her, Patience?" "It is not my habit to be unkind to any one. You have written, you say, to her to-day; you wrote without consulting me--the step is taken, and you must abide by it. I hope it will be for your happiness, James." He was watching her intently, and was satisfied. "I wish," he said, putting the cup down on the table beside the bed, "I wish you knew her better." "I will call upon her," said Miss Hancock, counting her stitches; "she left her parasol behind her last night, I will take it back to her----" "No, don't, for goodness sake!" said James, the Lambert _ménage_ rising before him, and also a vague dread that his sister, despite her appearance and words of goodwill--or rather semi-goodwill--might be traitorously disposed at heart. "At least--I don't know--I suppose it would be the right thing to do." "I am not especially anxious to call," said Miss Hancock, who had quite made up her mind to journey to Highgate on the morrow and spy out the land of the Lamberts for herself. "In fact, the only possible day I could call would be to-morrow before noon. I have a meeting in Sloane Square to attend at five, and on Wednesday I have three engagements, two on Thursday; Friday I have to spend the day with Aunt Catherine at Windsor, where I will remain over Sunday." "Well, call to-morrow and bring her back her parasol--oh, _damn_!" "James!" "Oh Lord! I thought some one had shot a bullet into my foot. Give me the medicine, quick, and send round for Carter. I must have some opium, or I won't sleep a wink."