Gloria paused as if inviting or defying him to any controversy on the subject; but he never said another word, and after a minute’s delay went back into his study and shut the door.
Gloria flew up stairs to her chamber, and in a few moments came down with two parcels in her hand.
“I have made my bundle into two, you see; one for you to carry and one for me,” she said, as she handed him the larger one; and perhaps she could not have explained, even to herself, the subtle delicacy of feeling that induced her to do this, so as not to seem to treat her old playmate as a servant or a porter, to carry all her luggage.
David wished to take both, but her peremptory decision prevented him.
Just as they were starting to go, Colonel de Crespigney emerged from his study, cloaked and gloved. He took his hat from the rack, saying pleasantly:
“I hope you will permit me to make a third in this party, my dear. I should like to go.”
Gloria was dumfounded with astonishment. Besides, what could she say in opposition to so reasonable a proposal? She could say nothing.
The three walked out together, Colonel de Crespigney taking the little parcel from his ward’s hand and carrying it himself.
She made no objection to this. She rather liked it, because David Lindsay was also carrying a bundle.
“What are the contents of these parcels, if I may inquire, my dear?” asked her guardian.