"After all I have said, you still ask this," she said, freeing herself, and at her wits' end to know what to do with him, remembering her oath; but this woman, and what revenge she may take, terrifies her. Mr. Cobbe lights the gas; but the inside shutters must be shut; and as she closes them, he assists her, standing so near that his cheek touches hers.
"Don't speak to me like that, Elaine; we love each other; and hang her for coming between us; come here, pet, and sit beside me; it is a treat to have you all to myself."
"No; I am in no humor for a tête-à-tête; and the Dales may arrive at any moment."
"Hang them; can't they go to a hotel; I dislike them; and surely you had enough of them, and that doleful Miss Crew, while Dale went north."
"Tastes differ, Philip; I have a sincere friendship for them; as to their coming now, most of my little friends' wardrobe is——"
Here a sharp ring at the hall door startled them.
"What! a ring; that woman will be the death of me; I tremble now, once evening comes, at every peal of that bell."
"Beg pardon, sir; a person—a—a lady, says she is waiting to speak to you, sir."
"Go, Philip, quick, for heaven's sake; this is dreadful," she said, in a gasp, holding her hand to her side.
"Mr. Blair," said Thomas; and the old gold portière hangings are again closed, and they are alone.