time?"

Sir Patrick closed the conversation:

"Sir," he said, with a low bow, "you _may_ wonder."

While this little skirmish was proceeding Lady Lundie and her
step-daughter had organized the game; and the company, players and
spectators, were beginning to move toward the lawn. Sir Patrick stopped
his niece on her way out, with the dark young man in close attendance on
her.

"Leave Mr. Brinkworth with me," he said. "I want to speak to him."

Blanche issued her orders immediately. Mr. Brinkworth was sentenced to
stay with Sir Patrick until she wanted him for the game. Mr. Brinkworth
wondered, and obeyed.

During the exercise of this act of authority a circumstance occurred
at the other end of the summer-house. Taking advantage of the confusion
caused by the general movement to the lawn, Miss Silvester suddenly
placed herself close to Mr. Delamayn.

"In ten minutes," she whispered, "the summer-house will be empty. Meet
me here."

The Honorable Geoffrey started, and looked furtively at the visitors
about him.

"Do you think it's safe?" he whispered back.