“I am not frightened for myself. But I know my father and mother will be alarmed if I don't come soon. I am sure Caesar must have run away again, and I am afraid Jenkins must be hurt.”
I had thought of that, too. Only an accident could explain the coachman's non-appearance or, at least, his not sending help to his mistress.
“If you are really not afraid to remain here, Miss Colton,” I said, “I will go to your house myself.”
“Oh no! Some one will come soon. I can't understand where Victor—Mr. Carver—can be. He was to have joined me at the church.”
I did not answer. Knowing Mr. Carver's associates and the errand upon which he had gone, I imagined I could guess the cause of his delay. But I did not speak my guess.
“The storm is not as severe just now,” I said. “I can get to your house in a little while, if you are willing I should leave you.”
She put her hand on my arm. “Come,” she said. “Shall we start now?”
“But you must not go. You couldn't get there on foot, such a night as this.”
“Yes, I can. I mean to. Please come.”
I still hesitated. She took her hand from my arm and stepped out into the rain. “Are you coming?” she said.