n that walk of life," he observed. "I fancy that Denham
once told me that his father was a corn merchant. Perhaps he said a
stockbroker. He came to grief, anyhow, as stockbrokers have a way of
doing. I've a great respect for Denham," he added. The remark sounded
to his ears unfortunately conclusive, and he was afraid that there
was nothing more to be said about Denham. He examined the tips of his
fingers carefully. "Cassandra's grown into a very charming young woman,"
he started afresh. "Charming to look at, and charming to talk to, though
her historical knowledge is not altogether profound. Another cup of
tea?"

Mrs. Milvain had given her cup a little push, which seemed to indicate
some momentary displeasure. But she did not want any more tea.

"It is Cassandra that I have come about," she began. "I am very sorry
to say that Cassandra is not at all what you think her, Trevor. She has
imposed upon your and Maggie's goodness. She has behaved in a way that
would have seemed incredible--in this house of all houses--were it not
for other circumstances that are still more incredible."

Mr. Hilbery looked taken aback, and was silent for a second.

"It all sounds very black," he remarked urbanely, continuing his
examination of his finger-nails. "But I own I am completely in the
dark."

Mrs. Milvain became rigid, and emitted her message in little short
sentences of extreme intensity.

"Who has Cassandra gone out with? William Rodney. Who has Katharine gone
out with? Ralph Denham. Why are they for ever meeting each other round
street corners, and going to music-halls, and taking cabs late at
night? Why will Katharine not tell me the truth when I question her?
I understand the reason now. Katharine has entangled herself with this
unknown lawyer; she has seen fit to condone Cassandra's conduct."

There was another slight pause.

"Ah, well, Katharine will no doubt have some explanation to give me,"
Mr. Hilbery replied imperturbably. "It's a little too complicated for
me to take in all at once, I confess--and, if you won't think me rude,
Celia, I think I'll be getting along towards Knightsbridge."

Mrs. Milvain rose at once.

"She has condoned Cassandra's conduct and entangled herself with Ralph
Denham," she repeated. She stood very erect with the dauntless air of
one testifying to the truth regardless of consequences. She knew from
past discussions that the only way to counter her brother's indolence
and indifference wa