While Howard, with dismay and apprehension, was looking after him, he heard "Mr.Howard!" called softly, mockingly, from the stairs, and looking up, saw Maude Falconer leaning over, with her arm extended, her hand open.
He understood in a moment, and, removing his ring as he ran up the stairs, put it in the soft, pink palm.

She gave a little triumphant, mocking laugh, her hand closed over the ring, and then she glided away from him.
The smoking-room was crowded as Stafford made his way in.

Through the clouds of smoke he saw his father standing at one end, surrounded by the money-spinning crew, Falconer seated in a chair near him with a black cigar between his lips.

The group were laughing and talking loudly, and all had glasses in their hands.

Some of the younger men, who had just come from the hall-room, were adding their laughter and chatter to the noise.