"I saw you come striding down the road, ma'am," he said deferentially, "and I knew you got off your own beat by mistake. I think I'd have screwed up my courage and said something if Mr. Travers hadn't happened along."
Madeleine nodded carelessly and entered the hack, followed by Travers, in spite of her protests.
"I too walked out here and intended to ask some one to give me a lift home. I am the unfortunate possessor of a liver, my dear young lady, and must walk six miles a day, although I loathe walking as I loathe drinking weak whiskey and water."
Madeleine shrugged her shoulders and attempted to raise one of the curtains. The interior was as dark as a cave. But Travers exclaimed in alarm.
"No! No! Not until we get out of this. When we have reached the city, but not here. In a hack on this road—"
"Oh, very well. Then entertain me, please, as I cannot look out. You always have something interesting to tell."
"I am flattered to think you find me entertaining. I've sometimes thought you didn't like me."
"Now you know that is nonsense. I always think myself fortunate if I sit next you at dinner." Madeleine spoke in her gayest tones, but in truth she dreaded what the man might make of this innocent escapade and intended to make a friend of him if possible.
She was growing accustomed to the gloom and saw him smile fatuously. "That sends me to the seventh heaven. How often since you came have I wished that my dancing days were not over."
"I'd far rather hear you talk. Tell me some news."