Then it was as if their hearts flew across the intervening space between them and they were actually touching each other.
Only when it seemed to Sita as if a century had passed before the gentlemen came into the drawing room to join the ladies after dinner did Lord Gale say to the Resident in a quiet voice,
“I wonder if it would be possible for me to have a word in private with Miss Arran? I have a message for her from the Viceroy, which I think should not be delayed and actually I wish to add my own congratulations on her quickness in saving the Nizam’s life. But I feel it would be embarrassing for her if I had to say it with such a large audience present.”
For a moment Mr. Cordery looked surprised.
Then he replied,
“Of course. My private sitting room is at your disposal my Lord. An
