Neil removed the gorgeous bottle-green velvet jacket that he wore in the evenings, and threw open the study door.

Then he faced Cowan.

That gentleman returned his gaze for a moment defiantly.

But something in Neil's expression caused his eyes to drop and seek the portal.

He laughed uneasily, and with simulated indifference laid his hand on Paul's shoulder.
"Come on, old chap," he said, "let's get out before we're torn to bits.
There's no pleasure in staying with such a disagreeable fire-eater, anyhow.