The waiter smiled. "I recommended him to take one."
"Thank you," said Mrs. Adney; and the Oberkellner withdrew. Then she went on, abruptly: "Will you do me a favour?"
"Yes, if you'll do me one. Let me see if your picture is signed."
She glanced at the sketch before giving it to me. "For a wonder it isn't."
"It ought to be, for full value. May I keep it awhile?"
"Yes, if you'll do what I ask. Take an umbrella and go after Mr. Vawdrey."
"To bring him to Mrs. Adney?"
"To keep him out—as long as you can."
"I'll keep him as long as the rain holds off."
"Oh, never mind the rain!" my companion exclaimed.