He held himself erect as one defying Fate.

So had he held himself throughout his trial; Field recognised the attitude.
The song upstairs had ended.

They heard the buzz of appreciation that succeeded it.

Field turned with the air of a man who had said his say.
"I don't believe in long engagements myself," he said.

"They must be a weariness to the flesh." He began to mount the stairs again, and Wentworth followed him in silence.
At the drawing-room door Field paused and they entered together.