You will simply inform him from me that I want time to consider, and that, unless he hears to the contrary in the interval, he may expect to have the sanction of your presence at his breakfast, or luncheon, or whatever it is.

I must go to town in a day or two, and I shall ascertain what Alfred's friends know about this last of his many follies, if I meet any of them at the club." Returning to South Morden in no serene frame of mind, Hardyman found Isabel in a state of depression which perplexed and alarmed him.
The news that his mother might be expected to be present at the garden party failed entirely to raise her spirits.

The only explanation she gave of the change in her was, that the dull heavy weather of the last few days made her feel a little languid and nervous.

Naturally dissatisfied with this reply to his inquiries, Hardyman asked for Miss Pink.

He was informed that Miss Pink could not see him.