He was engaged in realising that here was another enemy for Stella.

Knowing his father, he was not greatly surprised, but he thought it prudent to attack without delay.
"Stella will be coming over to tea this afternoon," he said.
"Will she, Richard ?" the father replied, twisting uncomfortably in his chair.

"Very well--of course." "Hubbard knows of my engagement, by the way," Dick continued implacably.
"Hubbard! God bless my soul!" cried the old man.

"It'll be all over the village already." "I shouldn't wonder," replied Dick cheerfully.

"I told him before I saw you this morning, whilst I was having breakfast." Mr.Hazlewood remained silent for a while.