A day or two later Herbert Bayliss and I had our delayed interview. He had called several times, but Hephzy had kept him out of my way. This time our meeting was in the main street of Mayberry, when dodging him was an impossibility. He hurried up to me and seized my hand.
“So you're back, Knowles,” he said. “When did you return?”
For the moment I was at a loss to understand his meaning. I had forgotten Hephzy's “fib” concerning my going away. Fortunately he did not wait for an answer.
“Did Frances—did Miss Morley return with you?” he asked eagerly.
“No,” said I.
His smile vanished.
“Oh!” he said, soberly. “She is still in London, then?”
“I—I presume she is.”
“You presume—? Why, I say! don't you know?”
“I am not sure.”