'He had arranged to start for England to-morrow, and to leave you and Lady Montbarry and the children to enjoy your holiday in Venice, under my care.

Circumstances have occurred, however, which have forced him to alter his plans.

He must take you all back with him to-morrow because I am not able to assume the charge of you.

I am obliged to give up my holiday in Italy, and return to England too.' Agnes looked at him in some little perplexity: she was not quite sure whether she understood him or not.
'Are you really obliged to go back ?' she asked.
Henry smiled as he answered her.

'Keep the secret,' he said, 'or Montbarry will never forgive me!' She read the rest in his face.