He stared with great amazement. “You have strong faith in the women,” he laughed. “I hope they will never disappoint you.”
I had no reply for this, and a short silence ensued, first broken by Mr. Gryce. “There is but one thing left to do,” said he. “Fobbs, you will have to request Miss Leavenworth to come down. Do not alarm her; only see that she comes. To the reception room,” he added, as the man drew off.
No sooner were we left alone than I made a move to return to Mary, but he stopped me.
“Come and see it out,” he whispered. “She will be down in a moment; see it out; you had best.”
Glancing back, I hesitated; but the prospect of beholding Eleanore again drew me, in spite of myself. Telling him to wait, I returned to Mary’s side to make my excuses.
“What is the matter—what has occurred?” she breathlessly asked.
“Nothing as yet to disturb you much. Do not be alarmed.” But my face betrayed me.
“There is something!” said she.
“Your cousin is coming down.”
“Down here?” and she shrank visibly.