“Shall you go direct to Hampton?” 21
“Direct to Hampton, via New York,” said Croyden. “There probably won’t anyone care enough even to inquire for me, but I’m not taking the chance.”
Macloud watched him with careful scrutiny. Was it serious or was it assumed? Had this seemingly sudden resolve only the failure of Royster & Axtell behind it, or was there a woman there, as well? Was Elaine Cavendish the real reason? There could be no doubt of Croyden’s devotion to her—and her more than passing regard for him. Was it because he could not, or because he would not—or both? Croyden was practically penniless—she was an only child, rich in her own right, and more than rich in prospect——
“Will you dine with me, this evening?” asked Macloud.
“Sorry, old man, but I’m due at the Cavendishes’—just a pick-up by telephone. I shall see you, again, shan’t I?”
“I reckon so,” was the answer. “I’m down here for the night. Have breakfast with me in the morning—if I’m not too early a bird, at eight o’clock.”
“Good! for two on the side piazza!” exclaimed Croyden.
“I’ll speak to François,” said Macloud, arising. “So long.”
Croyden slowly straightened his tie and drew on his coat. 22
“Macloud is a square chap,” he reflected. “I’ve had a lot of so-called friends, here, but he is the only one who still rings true. I may imagine it, but I’m sure the rest are beginning to shy off. Well, I shan’t bother them much longer—they can prepare for a new victim.”