He had felt his way carefully, and he pursued it quickly.

"For the rest, your daughter asked what I was ready to offer--such help as, in my new official position, I can give to Claridge Pasha in Egypt.

As a neighbour, as Minister in the Government, I will do what I can to aid him." Silent and embarrassed, the old man tried to find his way.

Presently he said tentatively: "David Claridge has a title to the esteem of all civilised people." Eglington was quick with his reply.

"If he succeeds, his title will become a concrete fact.