The harried expression which was becoming chronic leaped into his eyes at the introduction, as he asked himself what now might be portending.
"It's rather indelicate to discuss with a gentleman," she continued, braiding her fingers.
Wallie was alarmed but, anxious to set her at her ease, he said encouragingly:
"You can talk as freely to me as if I were your—father."
He had not had time to visualize himself as Aunt Lizzie's father when she went on in a short-breathed fashion:
"I fear that I shall have to leave you, Wallie, as soon as possible."
Wallie's wonder grew, but he said nothing.
"I think—I fear—I believe," she stammered, "that Mr. Hicks is of a very ardent temperament."
Wallie could not have spoken now had he wanted to.
"Since yesterday I have found him looking at me frequently in a peculiar manner. Last night he stared at me with his burning eyes until I could feel his hypnotic influence. I hope—I trust you will believe I have not given him any encouragement?"