Arnold recognized his employer's voice.
"I am sorry that you are displeased, my dear Fenella, but I assure you that I did the best I could.

It is true that the young man is in my office, but I am convinced that you will find him presentable." A peal of the softest and most musical laughter that Arnold had ever heard in his life effectually stopped Mr.Weatherley's protestations.

Yet, for all its softness and for all its music, there was a different note underneath, something a little bitter, unutterably scornful.
"My dear Samuel, it is true, without doubt, that you did your best.
I do not blame you at all.

It was I who was foolish to leave such a matter in your hands.

It was not likely that among your acquaintances there was one whom I would have cared to welcome to my house.