"I hope you will punish him severely," said Mrs. Parcott, billowing to her knees again and patting the baronet's hand soothingly.

Iverbrook looked at her in amazement. "I consider his behaviour an exemplary instance of self-defence. I suppose you think that instead of shooting Sir Aubrey I ought to pay his fare back to Jamaica?"

"There is no need for that," she said stiffly. "If he chooses to go, I shall pay his fare."

"Oh, but he most definitely chooses to go! He has already discovered how unhealthy the English climate can be. If he should stay, he might find it fatal. What is more, Bel, I'd join him if I were you. No telling but that you might find the Indies healthier too."

She shot him a look of dislike, but before she could speak Sir Aubrey groaned again, struggled to his feet and leaned over the sink.

Lord Iverbrook beat a quick retreat.

When he entered the dining room, Selena was standing in front of a long mirror framed with gilt cherubs, attacking her own face with a damp cloth. Their eyes met in the reflection.

"Are you hurt?" she whispered.

"Not in the least."

"Did you . . . did you kill him?"

"I'm afraid not. He was by far too ill to be shot. He will shortly return to the Indies, and I have a feeling that Mrs. Parrot will accompany him. In fact, I should not be surprised if they made a match of it. Sir Aubrey wants money, Mrs. Parrot wants a t.i.tle, they are perfectly suited."

Selena giggled. "I like to hear you call her Mrs. Parrot," she confessed, turning at last.

"You'll like it even better when I call you Lady Iverbrook." He held out his hands and she ran into his arms.

Swinging his legs, Peter watched with tolerant interest. Some minutes pa.s.sed before Hugh became aware of his scrutiny.

"Your aunt and I are going to be married after all," he announced, slightly flushed, over Selena's shoulder.

"That's all right," said Peter benignly. "I told Aunt Sena already, aunts and uncles is s'posed to be married to each other!"

end.