"It may be; but I should have been pleased if you could have told me that Hermione had been seen walking outside the gate."
"You would?"
"Yes. I dread the struggle which I now see before me. It is the first step which costs, and I was in hopes she would have taken this in my absence."
"Yes, it would have prevented argument. But perhaps you will not have to argue. She may be merely waiting for the support of your arm."
"Whatever she is waiting for, she takes her first step down the street to-night. What a new world it will open before her!" And Frank unconsciously quickened his pace.
Edgar followed with a less impatient step but with fully as much determination. Pride was mingled with his love, and pride demanded that his future wife should not be held in any bonds forged by the obstinacy or the superstitious fears of a wayward sister.
They expected to see the girls at the windows, but they found the shutters closed and the curtains drawn. Indeed, the whole house had a funereal look which staggered Frank and made even Edgar stare in astonishment. "It was not like this yesterday," he declared. "Do they not expect you?"
"Yes, if my telegram was delivered."
"Let us see at once what is the matter."
It was Doris who came to the door. When her eyes fell upon the two young men, especially upon Frank, her whole countenance changed.