"If she will have me!" Lorraine interrogated in surprise. "You think there is any doubt about it?"
"Candidly I do—very material doubt, indeed."
"You say that with knowledge—you have talked with her!" Lorraine cried, instantly suspicious.
"I saw Mrs. Lorraine but a few minutes at the Club-house, yesterday. Is it likely she would discuss you there?" Pendleton replied. "It was not until she was leaving, remember, that she encountered you and your—rebuff."
It was an unfortunate speech. Pendleton realized it as the last word was said.
It brought to Lorraine's mind the scene of yesterday, and his decision—made before them all. He had refused to recognize her then—should he reverse himself within twenty-four hours—make himself the laughing stock of every one—prove himself a mere will-o-the-wisp? He had been about to dash after Stephanie and apologize—to ask her to come back—to forgive and forget the past. But now he was not so sure—he must take time to consider—must ponder the situation gravely—must——
He looked at Pendleton, indecision showing in his face and sounding in his voice as he replied:
"It is a serious matter—I must think over it, Pendleton, I must think over it. I will know what to do to-morrow—and to-morrow is time enough to decide a matter that has been in abeyance for two years."
Pendleton nodded.
"Very well," he replied. "I said it is a matter for you alone to decide; but if you will be advised you will decide it without taking counsel with anyone. Make up your own mind, Lorraine, and then stick to it."