Tabs came forward as though he were about to push her back. "I'm not alone, Mrs. Lockwood——"
"I know. Porter told me. But why are you standing in my way?" She laughed again. A shiver of fear cut short her laughter. "What's the matter? I don't see your friend. Why don't you introduce——"
"He's not my friend. He says he's yours."
"Then all the more reason—— Why are you acting strangely? No, please let me into my own room, Tabs."
He had put out his arm to prevent her. Without warning the stranger advanced into the shaft of light. She saw him and fell back screaming, covering her eyes. With a vehemence that was unexpected, he pushed Tabs aside and clasped her to him. "Maisie darling, don't be afraid. I'm real. I know everything. And I don't mind——"
At sound of his voice, she uncovered her eyes. His face was close to hers. The fixed look of terror left her.
Putting out her hands timidly, she ran her fingers along the scar in his forehead. "They've hurt you. Poor you! My Reggie! Oh, my lover, they've hurt you!"
She buried her head against his shoulder and fell to weeping passionately.