He had shaken hands with both of them, behaving as though Mrs. Rolfe’s presence were the most natural thing in the world.  But Alma’s strength failed her; she trembled towards the nearest chair, and sank upon it.  Mrs. Strangeways, who had watched her with anxiety, took a step to her side, speaking hurriedly.

’Mr. Redgrave, I took the liberty to use your house as if it were my own.  Mrs. Rolfe has over-tired, over-excited herself.  She has been playing this afternoon at a concert at Mrs. Rayner Mann’s.  We were to drive back together, and came this way that I might call here —­ for the photo.  But Mrs. Rolfe became faint —­ after her exertions ——­’

Redgrave surpassed himself in graceful courtesy.  How could Mrs Strangeways dream of offering excuses?  Why had she not called for tea —­ or anything?  He would give orders at once, and the ladies would permit him to get rid of his travelling attire, whilst they rested.  He was turning to leave the room when Alma rose and commanded her voice.

’I am perfectly well again —­ thank you so much, Mr. Redgrave —­ indeed I mustn’t stay ——­’

With admirable suavity Redgrave overcame her desire to be gone.  Pleading, he passed playfully from English into French, of which he had a perfect command; then, in his own language, declared that French alone permitted one to make a request without importunity, yet with adequate fervour.  Alma again seated herself.  As she did so, her host and Mrs Strangeways exchanged a swift glance of mutual intelligence.

‘How can I hope you will forgive me?’ the lady murmured at Alma’s ear as soon as they were alone.

‘It’s very annoying, and there’s nothing more to be said,’ was the cold reply.

’But it isn’t of the least importance —­ do believe me.  We are such old friends.  And no one can ever know —­ though it wouldn’t matter if all the world did.’

‘I dare say not.  But, please, let our stay be as short as possible.’

’We will go, dear, as soon as ever we have had a cup of tea.  I am so sorry; it was all my foolishness.’

The tea was brought, and Mrs. Strangeways, her nervousness having quite passed away, began to talk as if she were in her own drawing-room.  Alma, too, had recovered control of herself, held the teacup in an all but steady hand, and examined the room at her leisure.  After ten minutes’ absence, Redgrave rejoined them, now in ordinary dress; his face warm from rapid ablution, and his thin hair delicately disposed.  He began talking in a bright, chatty vein.  So Mrs. Rolfe had been playing at a concert; how he regretted not having been there!  What had she played?  Then, leaning forward with an air of kindness that verged on tenderness ——­

’I am sure it must be very exhausting to the nerves; you have so undeniably the glow, the fervour, of a true artist; it is inspiring to watch you as you play, no less than to hear you.  You do feel better now?’