He sprang up the steps, thrust his head into the hall, and softly whistled. He waited a moment, there was no response, and he repeated the call. Still receiving no answer, he entered cautiously:
"Miss Helen!"
He tipped to the library door and called again:
"Miss Helen!"
Surprised that she could have gone so quickly he rushed into the room, glanced hastily around, crossed to the window, looked out on the porch, heard the rustle of a skirt and turned in time to see her flying to escape.
With a quick dash he headed her off.
Hiding her face she turned and ran the other way for the door through which he had entered.
With a laugh and a swift leap Tom caught her arms.
"Lord, you're a sprinter!" he cried breathlessly. "But I've got you now!" he laughed, holding her pinioned arms tightly.
Helen lifted her tear-stained face: