There was not the least chance for him any longer.

He might indeed suspect that the documents Margaret spoke of were a myth, and that her declaration of the engagement was in reality the only weapon she could use in Claudius's defence.

But that did not change matters.

No woman would "give herself away," as he expressed it, so recklessly, unless she were perfectly certain.

Therefore Mr.Barker went into the supper-room, and took a little champagne to steady his nerves; after which he did his best to amuse himself, talking with unusual vivacity to any young lady of his acquaintance whom he could allure from her partner for a few minutes.