There's a fine irony in human affairs! Selim might have thrown me before Edgehill or Dunlora--but to choose Fontenoy!" He looked at Cary with a certain appeal.

"I shall, of course, remove myself as soon as possible.

In the meantime, if you could assure me that Colonel Churchill and his family understand--" "Set your mind at rest," said Cary at once.

"Colonel Churchill is the soul of kindness and hospitality, and the ladies of Fontenoy are all angels.

You must not think yourself an unwelcome guest." He glanced again at the papers.