With an effort he steadied himself, then opened and read them one by one, his son's brief letter last--it was merely a calm farewell, with a request that justice should be done his son.
At that moment Falby entered and said: "Her ladyship's compliments, and all the guests have arrived, sir." "My compliments to her ladyship, and ask her to give me five minutes yet, Falby." Turning to his grandson, there seemed to be a moment's hesitation, then he reached out his hand.
"You have brought your luggage?
Will you care to dine with us ?" Gaston took the cold outstretched fingers.
"Only my saddle-bag, and I have no evening-dress with me, else I should be glad." There was another glance up and down the athletic figure, a half-apprehensive smile as the baronet thought of his wife, and then he said: "We must see if anything can be done." He pulled a bell-cord.

A servant appeared.
"Ask the housekeeper to come for a moment, please." Neither spoke till the housekeeper appeared.

"Hovey," he said to the grim woman, "give Mr.
Gaston the room in the north tower.

Then, from the press in the same room lay out the evening-dress which you will find there....

They were your father's," he added, turning to the young man.