Rathbone could see that that was indeed so unlikely as to be considered impossible.

"And Mr. Lambert?" He made a last attempt, more out of habit than a belief he would learn anything which would provide a defense.

Melville's expression was difficult to read, a mixture of admiration and despair. He sank back in the chair. "Mr. Lambert is an honest man, straightforward in word and deed. He drives a hard bargain, which is how he made his fortune, but strictly fair." The lines around his mouth softened. "But of course he loves his daughter, and he's fiercely loyal. He's sensitive about his northern roots and he sometimes fancies high society thinks the less of him because he earned his money in trade… and for that matter, so they do." He winced a little. "I suppose it was unnecessary to say that. I apologize."

Rathbone waved it aside. "So he would be quick to defend her from anything he saw as an insult," he concluded.

"Yes. And there is hardly a greater insult than to break a contract of marriage." The fear was sharp in Melville's voice again. "He cannot afford to believe me that there was none. Mrs. Lambert is a formidable woman-" He stopped abruptly.

"I see." Rathbone did see, extremely clearly, the nature of the predicament. He also felt increasingly certain that Melville was withholding something which he knew to be of importance. "Have you told me all the facts, Mr. Melville?"

"All that are relevant, yes." Melville spoke so unhesitatingly that Rathbone was sure he was lying. He had been expecting the question and was prepared for it.

"You have not found your affections engaged elsewhere?" He looked at Melville closely and thought he saw a faint flush in his cheeks, although his eyes did not waver.