"I think I can say 'yes' to that," answered the other. "But I'm not yet sure. I'll have to put it to the proof first, according to the formula which I gave you a half hour ago. If it succeeds, I'll tell you what it is; if it does not, I'll say nothing, and it will go upon the scrap heap devoted to broken fancies. And now, Dixon," to the chauffeur, "we'll go home."
CHAPTER XVI
STEEL AGAINST STEEL
Shortly before noon next day, Ashton-Kirk, in an immaculate morning suit, was ushered into the presence of Miss Edyth Vale. If he expected confusion, embarrassment or anything of that sort, he was disappointed; for she greeted him eagerly and with outstretched hand.
"This is a surprise," she said.
He held her hand and looked meaningly at her.
"My appearances are sometimes surprising," he said. "But I usually select the night for them; the effect is better then, you see."
She smiled into his eyes.
"I have no doubt but that you are dreadfully mysterious," she said. "But please sit down."