You can't spend long with Isabel, if you are to turn up in time for this precious concert.

Hullo! What's the matter ?" The door of the smoking-room had burst suddenly open, and Colonel de Vigne, very red in the face and as agitated as his pomposity would allow, stood glaring at them.
"So you are here!" he exclaimed, his tone an odd blend of relief and anxiety.
"Do you mean me ?" said Sir Eustace, with a touch of haughtiness.
"Yes, sir, you! I was looking for you," explained the Colonel, pulling himself together.

"I thought perhaps you might be able to give me some idea as to the whereabouts of my young charge, Miss Bathurst.

She is missing." Sir Eustace raised his black brows.

"What should I know about her whereabouts ?" he said.
Scott broke in quickly.