Voice and glance were calm as he gave a good-morning to his wife and to Miss Armytage.
"What are you going to do about Ned ?" was one of his wife's first questions.
It took him aback.

He looked askance at her, marvelling at the steadiness with which she bore his glance, until it occurred to him that effrontery was an essential part of the equipment of all harlots.
"What am I going to do ?" he echoed.

"Why, nothing.

The matter is out of my hands.

I may be asked to give evidence; I may even be called to sit upon the court-martial that will try him.