It was Saturday afternoon, and I was walking home toward my lodgings in a very depressed frame of mind, when a step came behind me and Duke fell into step alongside.
“Renny,” he said, “I think it right to tell you. I have taken the privilege of an old friend and spoken to Dolly on a certain subject.”
I nodded. The mere fact was a relief to me.
“We could only exchange a few words, but she has promised to come out with me to-morrow; and then, I hope, I shall learn more. What time will you be at home?”
I told him all day, if there was a chance of his turning up.
“Very well,” he said; “then I will call in upon you some time or other. Good-by.”
He seemed to be on the point of going, but to alter his mind, and he suddenly took my hand and pressed it hard.
“Are you lonely, old fellow?”
“Very, Duke—and I deserve to be.”
“It’s for the best? You agree with me?”