(He thought: out of one pattern-dance of compulsions and into another.) “I do want you or I would not have come. I could not help it. Did you not receive my letter?”
“I suppose you have some story to cover your utter desertion.”
“I swear I left with Dr. Remigorius a letter for you, telling how I was called to Sedad Vix on the most urgent of affairs; and then things happened. I will tell you.”
“Then it is true. You are one of the Sons of the New Day.” (The eyes were hidden, but the tone told clearly how deep was her anger and despair.)
“I have come for you,” he said, simply.
She uttered a bitter little laugh. “It is somewhat late, my friend. I am one of the licensed whores they call Myonessae, and now an attainted criminal.”
“I know—and so am I for bringing you from there.”
She took three steps in silence. “Where are you taking me?”
“A tavern.” (He had not thought, this was part of the plan he had been too excited to make.)
“Do you lodge in it?” (The voice was so small that he knew something lay behind the words.)