In the topmost window was a light; and Noll knew that by that light was Betty sitting—that the light was on her nut-brown hair—kissing her cheek——
He strode straight across the road, and rang the bell.
When the maid opened the door, Noll said:
“I wish to see Miss Betty Modeyne at once, please—lead the way to her rooms.”
The maid, used to the unquestioning obedience of orders, when given with authority, led the way upstairs, regardless of all the proprieties, careless of etiquette....
Arrived at the topmost landing, she threw open the door:
“A visitor to see you, miss,” cried she, wheezy at the high climb; admitted the handsome youth; and forthwith took herself off, descending to her household furbishings and area gossip.
Betty, rising from her chair, set aside some needlework, and turned to greet. She saw the youth standing before the closed door, his back to it.
She put her white hands upon her bosom.
“Noll!” she whispered; and a glad smile of wonder was in her eyes; and the red blood flushed her cheek and lip.