The three were left alone, Ernestine and Francis remained apart as though by design.

Trent was silent.
She returned in a moment or two.
"Sir Henry has not quite finished his examination, sir," she announced.
"The young lady can come up in half an hour." Again they were left alone.

Then Trent crossed the room and stood between them and the door.
"Before you see your father, Miss Wendermott," he said, "I have an explanation to make to you!".