One glance at Lorraine's face, however, answered him. There had been no reconciliation—no peace made; rather had the breach widened, if that were possible. He put his arm through his bridle-rein, and coming forward took Stephanie's hand and pressed it meaningly—and got an answering pressure back. Then he nodded pleasantly to Lorraine.
"You will pardon me for intruding!" Lorraine exclaimed. "I didn't realize, until a moment ago, that Mrs. Lorraine had an appointment here with you."
Pendleton understood a little now—and he turned to Stephanie with a politely interrogating air.
"Mr. Lorraine seems to be laboring under some excitement, Stephanie," he said, "may I ask you to explain—if you think it worth while. I'll not misunderstand, however, if you do not."
"Mr. Lorraine does me the honor to think that I have an appointment to meet you here—and that he has discovered us," she answered, unperturbed.
"Is that what you mean, Lorraine?" Pendleton inquired.
"That is exactly what I mean," he burst out. "Else why do I find her here and waiting—and why do you come?"
"Don't be foolish, Lorraine," said Pendleton kindly.—"You don't mean that—you're overwrought and nervous——"
"I'm not overwrought nor nervous!" Lorraine exclaimed. "And neither am I foolish any longer. I was blind once, but I'm not blind now. Amherst's gone—and you're substituted."