"Wherever you are, I must come often."
"Indeed you must, or for me too the burden will be heavier than I can bear."
As the Denyers were coming home, it surprised them to pass, at a little distance from the house, Clifford Marsh in conversation with the gentleman who had called upon Miss Doran. Madeline, exercising her new privilege of perfect sang-froid, took an opportunity not long after to speak to Clifford in the drawing-room.
"Who was the gentleman we saw you with?"
"I met him at Pompeii, but didn't know his name till today. He's asked me to dine with him."
"He is a friend of Miss Doran's, I believe?"
"I believe so."
"You accepted his invitation?"
"Yes; I am always willing to make a new acquaintance."
"A liberal frame of mind. Did he give you news of Miss Doran's health?"