As soon as they were on their way once more, under cover of the motor's burr, Haidee said, staring Val defiantly in the eyes:
"Garry and I are engaged."
It never occurred to her that Rupert had in any way prepared the way for her announcement, and she was blinded with amazement and fury that Val took it so serenely. True she once more got the impression of pallor under that unwonted colour in Val's cheeks, but the latter's eyes were very big and bright and friendly when she said quietly:
"That is very wonderful news, chicken."
That was all! The lovely dark face under the Congo orchid grew darker.
"We shall be awfully happy," she said fiercely. "And never think of this rotten old Europe or any one in it again."
Val spoke a strange saying, laying her hand on the girl's.
"One should try alway to keep a little dew in one's heart, Haidee, or else, in the heat and weariness of the desert it may dry up and blow away like a leaf."
Haidee wrenched her hand away.
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