"Go lock the back door, and bring me the key," he commanded.
The maid went away, and a moment later returned to hand him the key.
He still stood in the hall, waiting.
After a little there came a rush of skirts, and Miss Kellner ran down the steps, dressed for the street.
"Doris," he pleaded, "you must not go out now. Wait just a moment— we'll find a way, and then I'll go with you."
She tried to pass him, but his outstretched arms made her a prisoner.
"Do I understand that you refuse to let me go?" she asked tensely.
"Not like this," he replied. "If you'll give me just a little while then perhaps—perhaps I may go with you. Even if something had happened there you could do nothing alone. I, too, am afraid now. Just half an hour—fifteen minutes! Perhaps I may be able to find a plan."
Suddenly she sank down on the stairs, with her face in her hands. He caressed her hair tenderly, then raised her to her feet.
"Suppose you step into the back parlor here," he requested. "Just give me fifteen minutes. Then, unless I can find a way for us to go together safely, we will throw everything aside and go anyway. Forgive me, dear."
She submitted quietly to be led along the hall. He opened the door into a room and stood aside for her to pass.