Why should one see them?
What was there to be spoken of?
Their going, Betty explained would be a sort of visit of ceremony--in a measure a precaution.

Since Sir Nigel was apparently not to be reached, having given no clue as to where he intended to go, it might be discreet to consult Messrs.

Townlinson & Sheppard with regard to the things it might be well to do--the repairs it appeared necessary to make at once.

If Messrs.

Townlinson & Sheppard approved of the doing of such work, Sir Nigel could not resent their action, and say that in his absence liberties had been taken.