"Come," he said imperiously, offering his arm. She took it, and, without more words, they turned towards the house.
They had not gone far, when Eleanor Scaife met them. She was walking quickly, looking round as she went, as though in search. When she saw them she started, and cried,
"Oh, I want you, Alicia."
Medland immediately drew aside, and with a bow took his way. Alicia, calming herself with an effort, asked what was the matter.
"Why, it's that wretched brother of yours. I really do not know what Mary will say. I shall be afraid——"
"But what has Dick done?"
"Done? Why he's danced six dances out of eight with that Medland child. The whole room's talking about them."
"Eight dances? There can't have been eight dances?"
"Don't be silly," said Eleanor sharply. "I suppose you danced? No! I remember I didn't see you. Where have you been?"
"I—I've been sitting out."