"What is more, sir," his lordship went on, "I believe I have a good idea of what

you mean by 'professionalism'. It appears to mean getting one's way by cheating

and manipulating. It means ordering one's priorities according to greed and

advantage rather than the desire to see goodness and justice prevail in the

world. If that is the 'professionalism' you refer to, sir, I don't much care for

it and have no wish to acquire it."

 

This was met by the loudest burst of approval yet, followed by warm and

sustained applause. I could see Mr Lewis smiling at his wine glass and shaking

his head wearily. It was just around this stage that I became aware of the first

footman beside me, who whispered: "Miss Kenton would like a word you, sir. She's

just outside the door."

 

I made my exit as discreetly as possible just as his lordship, still on his

feet, was embarking on a further point.

 

Miss Kenton looked rather upset. "Your father has become very ill, Mr Stevens,"

she said. "I've called for Dr Meredith, but I understand he may be a little

delayed."

 

I must have looked a little confused, for Miss Kenton then said: "Mr Stevens, he

really is in a poor state. You had better come and see him."

 

"I only have a moment. The gentlemen are liable to retire to the smoking room at

any moment."