“I have no luggage; I came out on horseback.”
“Oh, was that your horse I heard?” she inquired in surprise.
“Yes; didn’t you know it?”
“No; I thought you came in a cab.”
“I preferred the saddle.”
“But—how about your luggage, Alick dear? Shall I call Leo and order him to take the carriage and go after it? Where did you leave it? At the hotel where you breakfasted?”
“Oh, you inquisitive little imp! Sit down and be quiet while I tell you. I brought very little luggage to Washington, and that I left, as you surmise, at the hotel where I breakfasted.”
“Then let me send Leo for it. He can go and return in two hours,” she said, again starting up.
“What a little fidget you are, to be sure! There is not the least need to send for my things from the hotel. And if you did but know what a little time I have to spend with you, you would not be so eager to run away from me.”
These words had the desired effect. They prepared her to hear his cruel announcement. She dropped into her chair, and looking at him uneasily said: