"On the contrary, since you insist on knowing," I answered, "here is the final decision, and it is in favor of the plaintiff."
Her eyes opened as the conviction that I was telling the truth forced itself upon her. She was evidently not pleased.
"Mr. Camran," she said, in tones as clear and cutting as ice, "I asked you a moment ago why you had not been to my home. I now say you need never call there again, as far as I am concerned, and I shall endeavor to have my brother write you to the same effect."
"Don't put Tom to so much trouble," I replied, stung by her manner. "I have business too important and too pleasant to allow much time for mere duty calls."
Lifting my hat, an action that she did not see, as her eyes were bent on the sidewalk, I resumed my stroll. I should have been more annoyed at the occurrence if another subject had not so fully filled my head. The clocks struck two before I reached the number I sought, and I walked more rapidly.
"Miss May said you were to come to her room at once," said the colored servant, when she recognized my features. Needing no second invitation I mounted the stairs.
Her door stood slightly open and as I entered, without knocking, she rose from a low rocker and came toward me.
I could not have resisted had I been liable to execution for the offense; I met her in the middle of the apartment and held out both my hands.
In the most unaffected and delightful manner she extended her own and I clasped them.
"It is settled, then?" I cried. "You are going!"