“Something very astonishing has happened, Morena,—one of those ‘things not dreamt of in a man’s philosophy.’ I can’t tell you. Have you arranged for me to meet Jane West?”

“After the show, yes, at supper.”

“But not as the author?”

“No. I was waiting for you to tell her that.”

“She mustn’t know. And—and I can’t meet her that way, at supper.” Again he made visible efforts at self-control. “Don’t tell Betty what a fool I am. I’ll go out a minute. I’ll be all right.”

Betty was coming toward them. He gave a painful smile and fled.


CHAPTER VI

JOAN AND PROSPER