To do so would be
to cause public opinion to express itself strongly against him. Such
action would place him grossly in the wrong." Then he added with
deliberation, realising that he was committing himself, and feeling
firmly willing to do so for reasons of his own, "Sir Nigel is a man who
objects strongly to putting himself--publicly--in the wrong."
"Thank you," said Miss Vanderpoel.
He had said this of intention for her enlightenment, and she was aware
that he had done so.
"This will not be the first time that American fortunes have restored
English estates," Mr. Townlinson continued amiably. "There have been
many notable cases of late years. We shall be happy to place ourselves
at your disposal at all times, Miss Vanderpoel. We are obliged to you
for your consideration in the matter."
"Thank you," said Miss Vanderpoel again. "I wished to be sure that I
should not be infringing any English rule I had no knowledge of."
"You will be infringing none. You have been most correct and courteous."
Before she went away Mr. Townlinson felt that he had been greatly
enlightened as to what a young lady might know and be. She gave him
singularly clear details as to what was proposed.
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