The tension of her nerves gave. Caroline groped her way to a chair, sat down, and hid her face in her hands for an instant; then she looked up.
"I entreat you to tell me what has happened," she said brokenly. "I care for her so much. I came here because I care so much ... because I thought I could help her." Her voice was husky. "I only heard from her late last night, but I had to come, and I prayed I might not be too late. Where is——"
Broxbourne looked at her as her words died away.
"Take my word for it, she isn't worth fretting over. She can take care of herself."
There was an indescribable amount of bitterness in his voice. Something about Caroline's look had checked his rage.
"She's all right," he said roughly.
"Yes, but where is she?"
Sir Samuel laughed, and then he scowled.
"You say you heard from her, so I suppose you know all there is to know."
Caroline brushed back her hair from her tired aching brow.