inference of the interchange of matrimonial consent here. I stick to
my own opinion, nevertheless. Evidence in proof of a marriage (I
say)--nothing more."

While Sir Patrick had been speaking, Geoffrey had been considering with
himself. By dint of hard thinking he had found his way to a decisive
question on his side.

"Look here!" he said, dropping his heavy hand down on the table. "I want
to bring you to book, Sir! Suppose my friend had another lady in his
eye?"

"Yes?"

"As things are now--would you advise him to marry her?"

"As things are now--certainly not!"

Geoffrey got briskly on his legs, and closed the interview.

"That will do," he said, "for him and for me."

With those words he walked back, without ceremony, into the main
thoroughfare of the room.

"I don't know who your friend is," thought Sir Patrick, looking after
him. "But if your interest in the question of his marriage is an honest
and a harmless interest, I know no more of human nature than the babe
unborn!"