In some ways this man was courageous. He delayed giving Etta her opportunity until there was a question of retiring to bed in view of the early start required by the next day’s arrangements. It had been finally settled that the three younger ladies should drive over to a woodman’s cottage at the far end of the forest, where luncheon was to be served. While this item of the programme was arranged De Chauxville looked straight at Etta across the table.
At length she had the chance afforded to her, deliberately, by De Chauxville.
“What did you mean?” she asked at once.
“I have received information which, had I known it three months ago, would have made a difference in your life.”
“What difference?”
“I should have been your husband, instead of that thick-headed giant.”
Etta laughed, but her lips were for the moment colorless.
“When am I to see you alone?”
Etta shrugged her shoulders. She had plenty of spirit.
“Please do not be dramatic or mysterious; I am tired. Good-night.”