ROUND THE TABLE
it is very odd that Ralph has not come forward, and I must say I am thankful Flora's engagement was never announced formally."
"It will be to-morrow," said Flora in a clear voice.
"Flora!" cried her mother, aghast.
Flora had turned to the secretary.
"Will you send the announcement to the Morning Post and the Times, please, Mr. Raymond."
"If you are sure that it is wise, Miss Ackroyd," he replied gravely.
She turned impulsively to Blunt.
"You understand," she said. "What else can I do? As things are, I must stand by Ralph. Don't you see that I must?"
She looked very searchingly at him, and after a long pause he nodded abruptly.
Mrs. Ackroyd burst out into shrill protests. Flora remained unmoved. Then Raymond spoke.
"I appreciate your motives, Miss Ackroyd. But don't you think you're being rather precipitate? Wait a day or two."
"To-morrow," said Flora, in a clear voice. "It's no good, mother, going on like this. Whatever else I am, I'm not disloyal to my friends."
"M. Poirot," Mrs. Ackroyd appealed tearfully, "can't you say anything at all?"
"Nothing to be said," interpolated Blunt. "She's doing the right thing. I'll stand by her through thick and thin.
Flora held out her hand to him.
[153]
