Their behaviour before the domestics left the impression that some huge joke was toward in the library.
The tactful barrister drew Hume and Helen outside to discuss immediate arrangements.

David promised faithfully to return from the rectory in fifteen minutes, and Brett re-entered the library.
Robert Hume-Frazer gave evidence of his semi-starvation.

He tried to disguise his eagerness, but in vain.

Biscuits, sandwiches, and soup vanished rapidly, until Margaret suggested a further supply.
"No, Rita," said her cousin; "I have fasted too often on the Pampas not to know the folly of eating too heartily.

I will be all right now, especially when Mr.Brett produces the whisky he spoke about." The barrister brought a decanter from the dining-room.