From the dining-room he sought the servants' quarters, and directed the housemaid to go at once to the drawing-room with the caller's mackintosh and hat, lest by some quick mental switch the madman revert to the subject of his mania and forget his intention of departure.
As it happened, the girl met the viscount in the passage. He accepted his proffered apparel without so much as a word, brushed past her, hurried through the entrance-hall, and was gone—forgetting even to close the door.
It seemed that the impulse to visit the tiger-house, once awakened, was as irresistible as the tides of ocean.
Andrews, having heard the maid close the door, went at once to Mrs. Darling. She recognized his step, and looked up in pleased surprise.
"You here still? I am so glad."
"Did you think I could leave you with him—alone?" he asked.
"But your business?"
"My business can wait. You needed me."
She gave him her hand.
"I am sick to my very soul," she said miserably. "I have abased myself and been kicked in the face."