CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: THE VISITOR
i
The noise which the others made, as fresh arrivals increased their numbers, enabled Monty to return to Patricia's side. She could see a whiteness even in Monty's cheeks when he was quite close to her, and her aversion to him died. Quickly her heart told her that he too was suffering.
"How are you feeling? Would you care to lie down? Shall I get you a taxi? I can't get rid of these people yet. If you'll lie down, I'll take you home later."
"I'll go soon," she whispered back, touched by his subdued tone. "Don't worry. I'm all right. I'm better. I'll go presently, when I feel able. I'll just slip out."
"I'm so sorry," he repeated. "Look here, I must see you before you go."
At that her nerves again raised protest. A deep shudder shook her.
"I'd rather not," she said, in the same low voice. "I couldn't stand any more ... excitement to-night."
"I must see you," he said. "You mustn't go without giving me five minutes."