He straightened himself in his chair.

"I am sorry.

Mr.Greensleeve is a very old friend----" The library telephone rang; the second man entered and asked if Colonel Mallett could speak to Mr.Dysart over the wire on a matter concerning the Yo Espero district.
Duane, astonished, sprang up asking if he might not take the message; then shrank aside as his father got to his feet.

He saw the ghastly pallor on his face as his father passed him, moving toward the library; stood motionless in troubled amazement, then walked to the open window of the conservatory and, leaning there, waited.
His father did not return.

Later a servant came: "Colonel Mallett has retired, Mr.Duane, and begs that he be undisturbed, as he is very tired.".