So it is arranged that she shall stay, and Constance proposes to return alone to Wardour.
As she goes down stairs to her carriage, from out the shadow of the drawing room comes Frank Lamotte, still very haggard, and trembling with excitement suppressed.
"Constance!" he whispers, hoarsely, "one moment, please."
She pauses before him, very pale and still.
"Constance," speaking with an effort, "I—went up there, hoping to keep Burrill from intruding; he was too quick for me, and—and I heard Sybil's last words—and yours."
No answer from the pale listener.
"My sister asked you to refuse me. Am I right?"
"You heard."
"And you promised?"
"I promised."