At last she heard her light step in the corridor. She sprang to the door.
"What in the world—"
Miss Sterling motioned for silence, and they hurried to the further side of the room.
"I knew you'd be frantic," she began; "but I couldn't help it. Just before I reached Mrs. Adlerfeld's room I heard Mrs. Nobbs's voice in there, so I stopped at Mrs. Albright's. I knew it would be all right to tell her, they are so intimate. She is pleased as we are. But it did seem as if Mrs. Nobbs never would go! Oh, the dear woman is so excited that I don't know whether she will get dressed straight or not! Mrs. Albright is helping her. His coming has upset her completely. But it is a happy up-setting! You can see that! I am so glad!"
"Will she come right over?"
"If they'll let her. I presume they will."
"If they don't, I'll make a fuss!" threatened Polly. "I'll go after Mr. Randolph."
Miss Sterling laughed. "You won't have to do that."
"You haven't ever found out what he wanted to talk with you about over the wire, have you?" Polly asked.
"No, and I never shall." Miss Sterling's lips took a sorrowful droop.