In the midst of these meditations she heard a ring at the front door. The next moment the footman came up, opened the door of the boudoir, and ushered in a visitor. Leslie started to her feet, a vexed exclamation came to her lips, and with difficulty remained unspoken, for Annie Colchester stood before her.
“I followed you here, Leslie,” said Annie. “Can I see you at once, and by yourself?”
“Certainly,” said Leslie. Her tone was cold. “Sit down, Annie.”
Annie did not sit; she came quickly across the room, and looked full at Leslie.
“You know, of course,” she said abruptly, “that I have come down from St. Wode’s?”
“Yes; and how did you pass your final?”
“I took an ordinary—no more; and now I want some work to do.”
“Of course.”
“How cold you look, Leslie; so different from what you were when first I met you at St. Wode’s.”
“Never mind about me,” answered Leslie. “Do you want me to help you? Have you come on that account?”