Tony grew suddenly very pale, and leaned against the wall.
“Come in; come in at once, and see her. We have been talking of you all the evening.”
“No, no,—not now,” said Tony, faintly.
“And when, if not now? You 're going off, you said.”
“I'm in no trim to pay visits; besides, I don't wish it. I 'll tell you more some other time.”
“Nonsense; you look right well in your brigand costume, and with an old friend, not to say—Well, well, don't look sulky;” and as he got thus far—he had been gradually edging closer and closer to the door—he flung it wide open, and called out, “Mr. Tony Butler!” Pushing Tony inside, and then closing the door behind, he retreated, laughing heartily to himself over his practical joke.
CHAPTER LIX. AN AWKWARD MOMENT
Alice started as she heard the name Tony Butler, and for a moment neither spoke. There was confusion and awkwardness on either side; all the greater that each saw it in the other. She, however, was the first to rally; and, with a semblance of old friendship, held out her hand, and said, “I am so glad to see you, Tony, and to see you safe.”
“I 'd not have dared to present myself in such a dress,” stammered he out; “but that scamp Skeffy gave me no choice: he opened the door and pushed me in.”