If you will permit me."
Wingrave spent half an hour examining his treasures, leaving his
attendant astonished.
"A millionaire who understands!" he exclaimed softly as he resumed his
seat. "Miraculous!"
Wingrave passed into the hall, and summoned his major domo.
"Show me the ballroom," he ordered, "and the winter garden."
The little man in quiet black clothes--Wingrave abhorred liveries--led
him respectfully through rooms probably unequaled for magnificence in
England. He spoke of the exquisite work of French and Italian artists;
with a gesture almost of reverence he pointed out the carving in the
wonderful white ballroom.
Wingrave listened and watched with immovable face. Just as they had
completed their tour, Morrison approached.
"Mr. Lumley and Lady Ruth Barrington are in the library, sir," he
announced.
Wingrave nodded.
"I am coming at once," he said.
THE WAY OF PEACE
They awaited his coming in varying moods. Barrington was irritable and
restless, Lady Ruth gave no signs of any emotion whatever. She had the
air of a woman who had no longer fear or hope. Only her eyes were a
little weary.
Barrington was walking up and down the room, his hands in his pockets,
his eyes fixed upon his wife. Every now and then he glanced nervously
towards her.
"Of course," he said, "if he wants a settlement--well, there's an end
of all things. And I don't see why he shouldn't.
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