He walked quickly home, and assuming a calmness he did not feel, entered the drawing-room, where Louise was seated reading.
“Your company gone?” he said roughly.
“Yes, dear. Papa has walked home with Madelaine.”
Harry turned sharply round, for he mentally pictured in one agonising thought the scene at Van Heldre’s home.
“Is anything the matter?” asked Louise.
“Matter? No. It’s very dark outside, and the light makes one’s eyes ache. Seen Pradelle?”
“No, dear,” said Louise gravely. “I thought he went out with you.”
“Yes, of course, but he likes to go wandering about the town. I wanted a quiet smoke by the water-side. I’m tired. I think I shall go to bed.”
“Do, dear. I’ll wait till papa comes.”
“Good night.”