"You mean--"
"Precisely," Wingrave interrupted. "I do not know what I might or
might not do for Lady Ruth. I have not considered the subject. It has
not, in fact, been presented to me."
"It is the same thing," Barrington declared hoarsely.
"Pardon me--it is not," Wingrave answered.
"What I ask you to do," Barrington said, "I ask on behalf of my wife."
"As an ambassador," Wingrave said coldly, "you are not acceptable to
me. It is a matter which I could only discuss with Lady Ruth herself.
If Lady Ruth has anything to say to me, I will hear it."
Barrington stood quite still for several moments. The veins on his
forehead stood out like tightly drawn cords, his breath came with
difficulty. The light in his eyes, as he looked at Wingrave, was
almost murderous.
"If Lady Ruth desires to see me," Wingrave remarked slowly, "I shall
be here at nine o'clock this evening. Tomorrow my movements are
uncertain. You will excuse me if I hurry you away now. I have an
engagement which is already overdue."
Barrington took up his hat and left the room without a word. Wingrave
remained in his chair. His eyes followed the departing figure of his
visitor. When he was absolutely sure that he was alone, he covered his
face with one hand. His engagement seemed to have been with his
thoughts for he did not stir for nearly an hour later. Then he rang
the bell for Aynesworth.
IN THE TOILS
Wingrave did not speak for several moments after Aynesworth had
entered the room.
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