the room. "I thought it would be a comfort to you, Ruth, to have me
with you to help explain exactly how matters stand. Good evening, John.
Go away, Bailey. Now let us discuss things quietly."

"She is responsible for the whole thing, father," cried Bailey.

Mr. Bannister rose.

"There is nothing to discuss," he said shortly. "I have no wish to
speak to you at all. As you appear to have played a large part in this
affair, I may as well tell you that it is settled. Ruth will not marry
Mr. Winfield."

Lora Delane Porter settled herself comfortably in a chair. She drew off
her gloves and placed them on the table.

"Please ask that boy Bailey to go," she said. "He annoys me. I cannot
marshal my thoughts in his presence."

Quelled by her eye, Bailey removed himself. His father remained
standing. Ruth, who had risen at her aunt's entry, sat down again. Mrs.
Porter looked round the room with some approval.

"You have a nice taste in pictures, John," she said. "That is a Corot,
surely, above the mantelpiece?"

"Will you----"

"But about this little matter. You dislike the idea of Ruth marrying
Mr. Winfield? Have you seen Mr. Winfield?"