The dinner could be described as simple, but the dishes served were all delicacies. Lionel felt it would be improper not to provide such a feast.

As everyone took their seats, Lionel glanced around and expressed his dissatisfaction, "Where is Ruth? The guests are all seated, and she's still dawdling?"

"Sir, Ms. Ruth went out," a trembling maid replied.

"Nonsense!" Lionel barked.

He immediately called Ruth. "We have distinguished guests at home, and you ran off?! You might belong to the Comba