"And don't interrupt." Sir Maurice proceeded to relate all that he had heard from Cleone.... "And she was so upset that she went with Brenderby, not caring what happened. That is the whole story," he ended. "Upset? But--was she upset--because I had offered and been rejected?" "Presumably. Now she is so hopelessly compromised that she daren't face you." Philip sank his head into his hands and gave way to a long peal of laughter. "_Sacré nom de Dieu_, the tables are turned, indeed. Oh, Clo, Clo, you wicked little hussy! And what was in that locket?" "That you will have to ask her yourself," answered Sir Maurice. Philip jumped up. "And I shall. _Mordieu_, never did I dream of such a solution to my difficulties!" "Perhaps she still will not have you, Philip," warned Sir Maurice. Philip flung back his head. "Thunder of God, she will have me now if I have to force her to the altar! _Ciel_, you have taken a load off my mind, sir! I thought she cared for Brenderby! She smiled on him so consistently. And now for _ce cher_ Brenderby! I am going to enjoy myself." "Remember, Philip! No breath of scandal!" "Am I so clumsy? Not a whisper shall there be! François, François! My hat, my cloak, my boots, and my SWORD!" Eighteen Philip Takes Charge of the Situation Sir Deryk's valet came to him, bowing. "There is a gentleman below who desires speech with you, sir." "Oh? Who is he?" "Mr. Philip Jettan, sir." Sir Deryk raised his eyebrows. "Jettan? What can he want with me? Ay, I'll come." He rose and went languidly downstairs. "This is an unexpected honour, Jettan! Come in!" He led Philip into a large room. "Is it a mere friendly visit?" "Anything but that," said Philip. "I have come to tell you that you will not be able to wed Mistress Cleone Charteris." "Oh?" Brenderby laughed. "Why do you say that?" "Because," Philip smiled a little, "I am going to wed her myself." "You? Oh, Gad, you make the third!" "And there is, as you know, luck in odd numbers. Are you satisfied?" "Satisfied? Damme, no! The girl's lovely! I've a mind to her." "Even though I tell you that she desires to be released?" "Even though she told it me herself!" "I trust you will allow me to persuade you?" Philip patted his sword-hilt lovingly. A light sprang to Brenderby's eyes. "Is it a fight you're wanting? By Gad, no man has ever had need to challenge me twice! Here? Now? Help me push the table back!" "One moment! You love a hazard, I think? I fight you for the right to wed Mistress Cleone. If I win you relinquish all claim upon her, and you swear never to breathe a word of what passed last night. If you win--oh, if you win, you do as you please!"