A DECREE OF BANISHMENT
The Imp cried--absolutely cried for vexation--when a curt and sour note from Southend told her the issue. The blow struck down her excitement and her exultation. Away went all joy in her encounter with Mr Disney, all pride in the skill with which she had negotiated with the Prime Minister. The ending was pitiful--disgusting and pitiful. She poured out her heart's bitterness to Major Duplay, who had come to visit her.
"I'm tired of the whole thing, and I hate the Tristrams!" she declared.
"It always comes to that in time, Mina, when you mix yourself up in people's affairs."
"Wasn't it through you that I began to do it?"
The Major declined to argue the question--one of some complexity perhaps.
"Well, I've got plenty to do in London. Let's give up Merrion and take
