He was interrupted by the opening of the front door. John Kendrick, wearing his light overcoat, and hat in hand, entered the living-room.
“I'm awfully sorry to be so late, Mrs. Barnes,” he began. “I was detained at the Centre. Hello, Captain! Good evening, Daniels! Good evening, Miss Howes!”
Captain Obed and Thankful said, “Good evening.” Neither Emily nor Heman returned the greeting. John, for the first time, appeared to notice that something was wrong. He looked from Mrs. Barnes to Captain Bangs, standing together at one side of the table, and at Daniels and Emily at the other side. Heman had moved closer to the young lady, and in his manner was a hint of confidential understanding, almost of protection.
Kendrick looked from one pair to the other. When he next spoke it was to Emily Howes.
“Why, what's the matter?” he asked, with a smile. “This looks like a council of war.”
Emily did not smile.
“Mr. Kendrick,” she said, “I am very glad you came. Now you can deny it yourself.”
John gazed at her in puzzled surprise.
“Deny it?” he repeated. “Deny what?”
Before Miss Howes could answer Heman Daniels spoke.