They were just thinking that it was time to dress for dinner when there was the sound of voices in the hall.
Natalie looked surprised.
“Papa must be back,” she said. “I did not expect him so early.
“He could not have stayed for the last race,” Silva replied.
They gazed at each other with worried expressions.
It was as if they felt that something untoward must have occurred.
“I hope there has not been an accident,” Natalie said.
As she spoke, the door of the room opened and the Duke came in, looking very smart in his frock coat.
As soon as Silva saw the expression on his face, she reckoned that he must have had a big win at the races.
“Oh! Here you are, Natalie!” he called out, as his daughter went towards him.
“You are back earlier than expected, Papa,” Natalie said as she kissed
