At the corner of the road leading to Mrs. Royce’s, she tapped on the window. Joe stopped the cab with a jerk, sprang down from his seat, and ran around to open the door.
“What’s the matter, miss?”
“Nothing,” said Lexy. “I’m sorry if I startled you, Joe. I thought I’d get out here and slip into the house quietly, without disturbing any one.”
Joe grinned sheepishly.
“I’ve got kind of jumpy since—that,” he said. “Howsomever, come on, miss!”
“Oh, I don’t mean to trouble you!”
“I’m going to see you safe inside that there house!” Joe declared firmly.
Grateful for his genuine kindness, Lexy made no further protest. Side by side they walked down the lane, their footsteps noiseless in the thick dust, and Joe opened the garden gate without a sound.
“I thought perhaps I could climb up that tree and get in at my window,” Lexy whispered.
“I’ll do it for you,” said Joe, “and come down and let you in by the back door.”