I did not say that one of my reasons for being glad was that I hoped to be able to obtain from him some particulars concerning my fair friend. I remembered the statement she had made during our journey from Paris together, to the effect that she and her father had been yachting with Rotherhithe in the Mediterranean. If they were on such intimate terms it was more than likely that my old friend would know more about her than any one else in our world of fashion would be likely to do.
When we reached Hyde Park Corner we paused for a few moments. I do not think she could ever have looked more beautiful than she did then, certainly never more dangerous.
"I wonder if, after we part, we shall ever meet again?" she said, with what was almost a touch of sadness in her voice.
"Are you, then, thinking of leaving England soon?" I asked in some surprise, for until that moment she had not spoken of terminating her visit.
"I do not think we shall remain very much longer," she replied. "I have duties abroad that are calling for my attention."
"I hope when you go that you will be able to say you have enjoyed your stay with us?" I said.
"I should have," she replied, "had it not been for this dreadful war. But as things are, how could one enjoy oneself?"
Had I known then all that I now know, I should have realized the double meaning contained in her remark. But more of that anon.
At last we bade each other good-bye, and separated, she crossing the Park in the direction of Wiltshire House, while I passed out and made my way over Constitution Hill towards Pall Mall.