" And he raised his eyebrows suggestively, the very portrait of a man
who had lost all restraint. "Lieutenant Ballard will accompany me, as
my faithful right hand in all things. But perhaps Earl Arthur would
feel more secure with a somewhat larger retinue?" Again (to Arthur)
the underlying insult, the slur against his courage and character.
"My orderly officer will be more than sufficient escort for me,"
returned the Secretary. "To record the events of our interview. For I
am sure that I
will have nothing to fear, once the truth is known."
"Bravo," said the larger man heartily. "Your strength and vitality are
an inspiration to us all. Now gentlemen, if you will excuse us."
Purceville himself led the way, as the four-man procession filed out
of the room, leaving behind the light and heat of the banquet hall.
And on toward the back reaches of the Castle.
"I'm afraid it's rather a long way," he said, as they turned the first
corner. "Perhaps the Earl might care to take a short rest?"
"Your audience is gone, Purceville. This is between you and me.
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