“Well, the position may have changed when we next meet,” I said as I rose. “And now, will you let me give you a hint on another matter. M. Volheno is my friend, as you know, and when I was with him to-day I learnt that your attitude toward the Government is a subject of close and watchful interest. You and all in this house will be well advised to be on your guard;” and without giving him time for the alarm in his eyes to crystallize into questions, I left him.
As I crossed the hall his wife met me. She greeted me very warmly and taking me to the saloon asked me to wait a moment for her.
Before she returned, however, Miralda and Inez came in. Both were surprised to find me there, and judging by their manner, their surprise was not so great as their displeasure.
“You are still in Lisbon, Mr. Donnington?” said Inez coldly.
“Obviously. Does that surprise you?”
“More than I can express. Doesn’t it, Miralda?”
“I don’t know,” murmured Miralda who was very much disturbed.
“I have no intention of leaving, madame,” I said to Inez.
“No doubt your correspondence detains you?”
“My correspondence?” I repeated.