a matter of some importance. What is it?"

Silence followed that question. Mr. Vanborough's face betrayed signs of
embarrassment. He poured himself out another glass of wine, and drank it
at a draught before he replied.

"It's not so easy to tell you what I want," he said, "after the tone you
have taken with me about my wife."

Mr. Kendrew looked surprised.

"Is Mrs. Vanborough concerned in the matter?" he asked.

"Yes."

"Does she know about it?"

"No."

"Have you kept the thing a secret out of regard for _her?_"

"Yes."

"Have I any right to advise on it?"

"You have the right of an old friend."

"Then, why not tell me frankly what it is?"

There was another moment of embarrassment on Mr. Vanborough's part.