The woman comprehended his meaning, and at once altered her tactics. She withdrew her hand from his, went to a cheffonier, and placed on the table a decanter of wine and glasses.
“We’ll have a glass together before you leave,” she said, in a careless manner.
“I have had quite enough already—indeed, more than enough,” he returned.
“Ah, that’s it—is it?”
“Yes, that’s it. You see, old girl, I’ve been knocking about with a young spark for some hours, and feel that I’ve had quite enough. However, I won’t refuse to take one glass—just to show that there’s no animosity.”
Two glasses were filled, and the companions drank by way of good fellowship.
Peace remained for some time after this, giving the woman a short but succinct account of their old associates at Sheffield.
It had arrived at the small hours of the morning when he took his departure, and returned to Sanderson’s Hotel.
* * * * *
Many days have passed over since our hero’s visit to Laura Stanbridge.