'Only as your meetings may complicate matters by making new trouble for yourself, or—possibly—her.'
'Then,' said he, looking me straight in the eye, 'Miss Jenrys must decide the question.'
As I came out from the hospital that day I came face to face with Monsieur Voisin. He paused a moment, as if in doubt, and then came quickly toward me, one hand extended, a smile upon his face. His greeting was the perfection of courtesy, and I, of course, responded in kind.
After a few remarks of the usual sort, a word regarding the weather, which was perfect, and praises of the Fair, Monsieur Voisin, who had seen me emerge from the hospital, said:
'So it is here that this great Fair cares for its sick and unfortunate? Have you been inspecting its methods, may I ask?'
There are times when the truth is best; and I thought I knew my man, so I replied smilingly:
'A hospital is not in itself charming. I have been to call upon a friend.'
'That, indeed! A patient, I suppose?'
'A patient, yes.' I felt sure that he was not inclined to tarry, nor in truth was I; but I let him take the initiative, and after a few more airy, courteous words he murmured something about an appointment, and went his way.
When he was quite out of sight I went back to the guard near the door of the hospital, who had grown to know me quite well.