Here the Earl
paused, looked around him, and began in a low voice.
"My friend, I regret to perceive that you begin to act without
instructions."
"In what way?"
"You propose to return at once to Harwich with this son of yours."
"Certainly, my lord. It appears to me that I have deserved a holiday
by this week's work."
"You shall take one; but not at Harwich just yet."
"And why not at Harwich?"
"For two reasons. In the first place you do no good, but harm, in
returning thither at this moment. Understand that I am only asking
you to defer the visit for a week or two. At present I am awaiting
certain necessary information, without which you will hardly lay your
hands on the good fortune I intend for you."
"You are mysterious, my lord. This boy of mine--"
"Will bring you wealth and dignity, I promise, if you allow me to
conduct the affair. If not--"
"What is the other reason?"
"The other reason," replied the Earl, looking down and moving a
skittle gently with the toe of his boot--"the other reason is that I
require you to spend the first part of your holiday elsewhere."
"Where may that be?"
"At Saint Germains."
"My lord, you risk my neck with much composure!"
"There is no risk at all, unless--"
"Pray finish your sentence.
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