It might be that the something she was always expecting to snap in her nature would do so that evening and save her the supreme effort of taking the final step on her own initiative, and consequently having to bear the full responsibility. Whilst these thoughts were passing rapidly through her mind, Alaric hurried in through the windows from the garden.
"Not a sign of Margaret anywhere," he said furiously, throwing himself into a chair and fanning himself vigorously.
"This cannot go on," cried Mrs. Chichester.
"I should think not indeed. Running about all over, the place."
Mrs. Chichester held up an open telegram:
"Mr. Hawkes telegraphs he will call to-morrow for his first report. What can I tell him?"
"What WILL you?" asked Alaric.
"Am I to tell him that every tutor I've engaged for her resigned? Not one stays more than a week. Can I tell him THAT?"
"You could, mater dear: but would it be wise?"
Mrs. Chichester went on: