He approached Lord Altmore first because it is well-known that the Altmores have always been anxious to extend their own borders to the coast." "Does Lord Altmore want to buy ?" asked Gilling.
"It is very evident that he would be quite willing to buy," said Mrs.Greyle.
"What made him come to you," continued Gilling.

"He must have had some reason ?" "He had a reason," Mrs.Greyle answered, with a glance at Audrey.

"He knows the family history, of course--he is very well aware that my daughter is at present the heir apparent.

He therefore thought we ought to know of this offer.

But that is not quite all.