It was almost dusk of the short day, as it had been cloudy and was threatening a storm. Roger had overtaken Jaqueline on her homeward way.
"How many days has it been?" turning a smiling face to him. "I have sold all my tickets, and I had meant to keep two for you. Come home to supper with me. Of course you know what has happened! Patty acts as if no girl ever had a lover before. It is amusing."
Her light tone angered him.
"Walk a little ways with me. I have something to say to you."
He drew her hand through his arm and strode on. She braced herself for a storm.
"What—down to the marsh? The frost is coming out of the ground, and we shall be swamped."
That was true enough. He turned suddenly.
"Let us go home. It looks like rain. I believe I felt a drop on my face," she began.
"Not until I have said my say," in a resolute tone of voice. "Jaqueline, I cannot have this manner of going on. It is very unjust to me, and you will not be the more respected by parading Lieutenant Ralston's devotion to you when you have an acknowledged lover."
"His devotion to me? Why, everybody knows—at least, we all know—"