In spite of Walcott’s coldness Shelby continued talking earnestly, but it seemed to have no effect. Walcott’s reticence seemed to exasperate Shelby, who with difficulty restrained his own feelings. I fancied that, had it not been for Winifred, Shelby’s temper would have got the better of him.
When finally Walcott rose and with a polite excuse started to move away, it was apparent that Shelby was intensely resentful. However, he said nothing, nor did he even attempt to follow Walcott out of the café.
“Evidently he has made little progress in patching up the tiff with Winifred,” concluded Craig, as we, too, rose and sauntered out into the main part of the hotel.
XIV
THE GEOPHONE
We had no more than reached the lobby of the hotel again when we found Hastings seeking us. Evidently he had sensed that Kennedy was vexed at him for letting Winifred pass without finding out what was her mission.
“This time, at least, I think I have something to tell you,” he hastened, drawing us aside.
“What is it about?” encouraged Kennedy, eagerly.
“Paquita,” he replied, scanning our faces. “She has returned to the hotel.”
Kennedy’s countenance betrayed some disappointment, for we already knew that.