He had known whither the boy's wayward fancy was tending before that.

The scene in the hunting-field had been sufficient revelation for him, and had lent strength to his arm and fury to his indignation.
Piers' decision to spend his last night in England at a dance had been a surprise to him, but then the boy had puzzled him a good many times of late.

He had even asked himself once or twice if it had been his deliberate intention to do so.

But since it was absolutely certain that the schemer at the Vicarage would not be present at Dick Guyes' party, Sir Beverley did not see any urgent necessity for keeping his grandson at his side.

He even hoped that Piers would enjoy himself though he deemed him a fool to go.
And, to judge from appearances, Piers was enjoying himself.