"Down by the pond, I think," he said, with an attempt at airiness.

"In a moment you will make me angry. You know what I wish to know. Did
you propose to Marjorie, Hugh?"

"Did I--" He seemed astonished. "Did I what?"

"Propose to Marjorie! Good heavens, man, isn't that why I sent you
there?"

"I certainly did not propose to her. How on earth could I?"

"There is no reason on earth why you should not have proposed to her
that I can see."

"But there is one that I can see." He paused. "A man can't invite a
young woman to marry him--when he is already married!"

It was out! He scarcely dared to look at her. Lady Linden said nothing;
she sat down.

"Hugh!" She had found breath and words at last. "Hugh Alston! Did I hear
you aright?"

"I believe you did!"

"You mean to tell me that you--you are a married man?"

He nodded. He realised that he was not a good liar.