rsonal enemy. I am therefore naturally
desirous that my daughter should not marry this young man."

"We will let it go at that," Francis commented, "but I should like to
point out to you that the antagonism between us is in no way personal.
You have declared yourself for forces with which I am at enmity, like
any other decent-living citizen. Your declaration might at any time be
amended."

Sir Timothy bowed.

"The situation is stated," he said. "I will ask you this question as a
matter of form. Do you recognise my right to forbid your marriage with
my daughter, Mr. Ledsam?"

"I most certainly do not," was the forcible reply.

"Have I any rights at all?" Sir Timothy asked. "Margaret has lived under
my roof whenever it has suited her to do so. Since she has taken up her
residence at Curzon Street, she has been her own mistress, her banking
account has known no limit whatsoever. I may be a person of evil
disposition, but I have shown no unkindness to her."

"It is quite true," Margaret Admitted, turning a little pale. "Since I
have been alone, you have been kindness itself."

"Then let me repeat my question," Sir Timothy went on, "have I the right
to any consideration at all?"

"Yes," Francis replied. "Short of keeping us apart, you have the
ordinary rights of a parent."

"Then I ask you to delay the announcement of your engagement, or taking
any further steps concerning it, for fourteen days," Sir Timothy said.
"I place no restrictions on your movements during that time. Such
hospitality as you, Mr. Ledsam, care to accept at my hands, is at your
disposal. I am Bohemian enough, indeed, to find nothing to complain of
in such little celebrations as you are at present indulging in--most
excellent pate, that. But I request that no announcement of your
engagement be made, or any further arrangements made concerning it, for
that fourteen days."

"I am quite willing, father," Margaret acquiesced.

"And I, sir," Francis echoed.

"In which case," Sir Timothy concluded, rising to his feet, lighting a
cigarette and taking up his hat and gloves, "I shall go peaceably away.
You will admit, I trust," he added, with that peculiar smile at the
corner of his lips, "that I have not in any way tried to come the heavy
father? I can even command a certain amount of respect, Margaret, for a
young man who is able to inaugurate his engagement by an impromptu meal
of such perfection. I wish you both good morning. Any invitation whic