_Tredwell._ Very good, Sir Rupert. (_To himself, as he departs._) If I'm not precious careful over this job, it may cost me my situation! _Spurrell._ Sir Rupert, I've been thinking that, after what's occurred, it would probably be more satisfactory to all parties if I shifted my quarters, and--took my meals in the housekeeper's room. [Lady MAISIE _and_ Lady RHODA _utter inarticulate protests_. _Sir Rupert._ My _dear_ sir, not on any account--couldn't _hear_ of it! My wife, I'm sure, will say the same. _Lady Culverin_ (_with an effort_). I hope Mr. Spurrell will continue to be our guest precisely as before--that is, if he will forgive us for putting him into another room. _Spurrell_ (_to himself_). It's no use; I _can't_ get rid of 'em; they stick to me like a lot of blooming burrs! (_Aloud, in despair._) Your ladyship is very good, but---- Well, the fact is, I've only just found out that a young lady I've long been deeply attached to is in this very house. She's a Miss Emma Phillipson--maid, so I understand, to Lady Maisie--and, without for one moment wishing to draw any comparisons, or to seem ungrateful for all the friendliness I've received, I really and truly would feel myself more comfortable in a circle where I could enjoy rather more of my Emma's society than I can here! _Sir Rupert_ (_immensely relieved_). Perfectly natural! and--hum--sorry as we are to lose you, Mr. Spurrell, we--ah--mustn't be inconsiderate enough to keep you here a moment longer. I've no doubt you will find the young lady in the housekeeper's room--any one will tell you where it is.... Good night to you, then; and, remember, we shall expect to see you in the field on Tuesday. _Lady Maisie._ Good night, Mr. Spurrell, and--and I'm so very glad--about Emma, you know. I hope you will both be very happy. [_She shakes hands warmly._ [Illustration: "I'M SO VERY GLAD--ABOUT EMMA, YOU KNOW."] _Lady Rhoda._ So do I. And mind you don't forget about that liniment, you know. _Captain Thicknesse_ (_to himself_). Maisie don't care a hang! And I was ass enough to fancy---- But there, that's all over now! _In the Verney Chamber._ _Undershell_ (_in the dressing-room, to himself_). I wonder how long I've been locked up here--it seems hours! I almost hope they've forgotten me altogether.... Some one has come in.... If it should be Sir Rupert!! Great heavens, what a situation to be found in by one's host!... Perhaps it's only that fellow Spurrell; if so, there's a chance. (_The door is unlocked by_ TREDWELL, _who has lighted the candles on the dressing table_.) It's the butler again. Well, I shall soon know the worst! (_He steps out, blinking, with as much dignity as possible._) Perhaps you will kindly inform me why I have been subjected to this indignity?