"I want you to bear witness that Lord Huntingford has promised to keep absolutely quiet about a little altercation of ours, and--" The quick gesture of caution from Veath came too late.

Lady Huntingford with astonished eyes was gazing into the room at them.

Hugh promptly went over to her.
"You must pardon me, Lady Huntingford; I am sorry to cause you any pain or annoyance.

In a dispute over the cards with your husband I forgot myself for a moment.

Pray forgive me." Ridgeway quietly strode away with Grace and Veath.