Pausing, Alice gave a look of questioning appeal into the expressive, sympathetic face of Sir Donald Randolph. He seemed struggling with some unwonted emotional impediment to proper speech. Rising, he extended his hand, took that of this interesting young woman, and bowing low, in a husky voice said:
"Make no apologies, Alice! You are all right."
Alice felt much relieved, but the strain had been great. For a while she leaned back in wearied collapse.
Sir Donald suggested that she await her uncle, while he saw his family. After the evening meal, he would esteem it a favor to have all meet at Esther's room.
This invitation was accepted.
Sir Donald notified Thomas Webster that Alice awaited him, adding:
"What a grand girl!"