"Do sit down, please." Captain Griffiths bowed but remained standing.
"It is very near your dinner-time, I know, Lady Cranston," he continued apologetically.

"The fact of it is, however, that as Commandant here it is my duty to examine the bona fides of any strangers in the place.
There is a gentleman named Lessingham staying at the hotel, who I understand gave your name as reference." Philippa's eyes looked larger than ever, and her face more innocent, as she gazed up at her visitor.
"Why, of course, Captain Griffiths," she said.

"Mr.Lessingham was at college with my brother, and one of his best friends.

He has shot down at my father's place in Cheshire." "You are speaking of your brother, Major Felstead ?" "My only brother." "I am very much obliged to you, Lady Cranston," Captain Griffiths declared.

"I can see that we need not worry any more about Mr.
Lessingham." Philippa laughed.
"It seems rather old-fashioned to think of you having to worry about any one down here," she observed.