It was true that they had evaded suggestions to meet him, but a formal invitation was different.

He passed the letter to Willet, who read it and handed it to Tayoga.
"We'll have to go, Robert," said the hunter.

"It's evident that Bigot wants us, and if we don't accept he may make trouble for us.

Yes, it's wiser to go." Robert's eyes shone and Willet noticed it.
"You'd have been disappointed if I had counseled a negative," he said.
"I would," said Robert frankly.

"I'm looking forward to the dinner with the Intendant.