“Oh well,” said Lord Caterham. “Perhaps that was the best way. Thank goodness in the future Lomax won’t always be running over as he has been in the habit of doing, worrying me about things. Everything is for the best they say. Have you seen my jigger anywhere?”

“A mashie shot or two would steady my nerves, I think,” said Bundle. “I’ll take you on for sixpence, Loraine.”

An hour passed very peacefully. The three returned to the house in a harmonious spirit.

A note lay on the hall table.

“ Mr. Lomax left that for you, my lord,” explained Tredwell. “He was much disappointed to find that you had gone out.”

Lord Caterham tore it open. He uttered a pained ejaculation and turned upon his daughter. Tredwell had retired.