"Then we will take a car, and you can accompany me home."
"Shall I go after my valise?"
"No, you can go after that this evening. If you accompany me now we shall be in time for dinner."
Rather dazed by the suddenness of his engagement, Robert hailed a passing car by direction of his companion, and they took seats. The ride proved to be a long one. They disembarked at Prairie Avenue, and the lady led the way to a handsome residence. Robert went up the front steps with her, and rang the bell.
The door was opened by a smart servant girl, who regarded Robert with some surprise.
"Is dinner ready, Martha?" asked the lady of the house.
"Yes, madam. It will be served at once."
"Take this young gentleman up to the back room on the third floor, so that he may prepare for dinner."
"Yes, Mrs. Vernon."
"You will find everything necessary for your toilet in the room which I have assigned you. By the way, what is your name?"