Hanbury-Green felt
this was the moment to act. He had no intention of having any quarrel
with his rival, or of putting himself in the position of being called
upon to give an account of himself. The news of his dismissal must be
conveyed to John Derringham by the lady as that lady's free and
determined choice.
So Mr. Green was very cautious all the Friday evening, and made himself
as irresistible as he could, using all his clever wits to flatter and
cajole Cecilia, and leaving not a trifle unconsidered which could
interfere with his plans.
They were simple enough.
He claimed to have discovered a quite new and quite charming spot on the
Lido, which he was most anxious to take Mrs. Cricklander to see
alone--he put a stress upon the word _alone_, and looked into her eyes.
They would go quite early and be back before tea, as John Derringham had
timed himself to arrive upon the mainland about seven o'clock, and would
be at the Daniellis, where they were all staying, for dinner.
Mrs. Cricklander felt she must have one more delightful afternoon, and,
as this excursion might contain a spice of adventure, it thrilled her
blood.
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