I'm awfully sorry for him," said Minnie.
"Well, then, Captain Kirby will be here next. Of course you will see
him?"
"I suppose so," said Minnie, resignedly.
"And how long do you think this sort of thing can go on? They'll meet,
and blood will be shed."
"Oh dear! I'm afraid so."
"Then I'm not going to allow it. I've telegraphed to papa. He'll see
whether you are going to have your own way or not."
"I'm sure I don't see what dear papa can do."
"He won't let you see those horrid men."
"He won't be cruel enough to lock me up in the house. I do wish he
would come and take me away. I don't want them. They're all horrid."
[Illustration: "MIN, IT'S ME!"]
"This last one--this Gunn--is the most terrible man I ever saw."
"Oh, Kitty dearest! How _can_ you say so? Why, his rudeness and
violence are perfectly irresistible. He's charming. He bullies one so
deliciously."
Mrs. Willoughby at this turned away in despair.
Minnie's very peculiar situation was certainly one which required a
speedy change. The forced entrance of the Baron had thrown
consternation into the family. Ethel herself had been roused, and took
a part in the debate. She began to see Minnie in a new light, and
Hawbury's attention to her began to assume the appearance of a very
mournful joke. To her mind Minnie was now the subject of desperate
attention from five men.
Thus:
1. Lord Hawbury.
2. Count Girasole.
3. Scone Dacres.
4. Baron Atramonte.
5. Captain Kirby, of whom Mrs.
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