It appeared that he needed a question to be put to him.

Lady Splay dutifully put it.
"And where did this party take place, Mr.Albany Todd ?" Mr.Albany Todd smiled and dusted the crumbs from his knees.
"At the Earl of Wimborough's little place in the north.

Do you know the Earl of Wimborough?
No?
You must, dear lady! I will see to it." "Thank you," said Millie Splay.
Harold Jupp looked eagerly at the personage, and said, "I hope Wimborough won't go jumping this winter." "Jumping!" cried Mr.Albany Todd turning indignantly.

"I should think not indeed! Jumping! Why, he is seventy-three!" He was utterly scandalised that any one should attribute the possibility of such wayward behaviour to the venerable Earl.

In his agitation he ate another muffin.