“Yes;” he replied, “but Mrs. Kingdon is away—”
“I know—but she wrote me to come here; that she would be home very soon.”
“I am glad to hear that. Come in,” he urged hospitably, as he picked up her suitcase. “The housekeeper will make you comfortable.”
She hesitated.
“Is Miss Lamont in?”
“Miss Lamont—Miss Pen Lamont?” he asked in surprise. “She is a friend of yours?”
“Yes,” she replied composedly.
“She has gone for a drive, but she will be back soon.”
She followed him within and stood gazing at the pleasant interior,—books, pictures, piano and fireplace, while he went to summon the housekeeper.
“Mrs. Merlin, this is a friend of Mrs. Kingdon’s,” he said on his return. “Will you show her to one of the guest rooms?”