When they left the pier, they saw Stoss still surrounded by reporters, working his jaws with incredible rapidity, as he discoursed upon himself and the role he had played in the sinking of the Roland. They were about to enter their cab after their flight, through the crowd, when an elderly gentleman, panting breathlessly and perspiring, despite the nipping wind, stepped up to Ingigerd Hahlström with, "I beg your pardon, but I come from Webster and Forster." He took off his hat and wiped the inside band with his handkerchief. "I was told—I was told—I came in a carriage—a carriage is waiting—" He stopped, too exhausted to continue.
"Miss Hahlström cannot possibly appear this evening."
"Oh, Miss Hahlström looks very well!"
"See here," said Frederick ready to flare up.
Webster and Forster's agent put his hat back on his bald pate.
"It would be the greatest mistake if Miss Hahlström were not to dance to-night," he said. "I was commissioned to provide her with money and anything else she needed. There's my carriage. Rooms have already been engaged for her at the Astor."
Frederick grew angry.
"I am a physician," he snapped, "and as a physician, I tell you Miss Hahlström will not dance to-night, nor for several nights."
"Will you make good to Miss Hahlström her financial loss?"
"What I shall do in regard to that is neither your nor Webster and Forster's business."