"
Sir Eustace smiled cynically. "Oh, you have always been ready to rush
in!" he said. "Doubtless your weakness is your strength."
Scott met the gibe with tightened lips. He made no attempt to reply to
it. "The only thing left," he said quietly, "is for you to see her and
hear what she has to say. She is waiting in the conservatory."
"She is waiting?" Eustace wheeled swiftly.
Scott was already half-way across the room. He strode forward, and
intercepted him.
"You can go," he said curtly. "You have done your part. This business is
mine, not yours."
Scott stood still. "I have promised to see her through," he said. "I must
keep my promise."
Sir Eustace looked for a single instant as if he would strike him down;
and then abruptly, inexplicably he gave way.
"Very well," he said. "Fetch her in!"
CHAPTER XVIII
THE TRUTH
At Scott's quiet summons Dinah entered. What she had passed through
during those minutes of waiting was written in her face. She looked
deathly.
Sir Eustace did not move to meet her. He stood by the table, very
upright, very stern, uncompromisingly silent.
Dinah gave him one quivering glance, and turned appealingly to Scott.
"Don't be nervous!" he said gently. "There is no need. I have told him
your wish."
She was terrified, but the ordeal had to be faced. She summoned all her
strength, and went forward.
"Oh, Eustace," she said piteously, "I am so dreadfully sorry.
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