Up to this time Cora had really not noticed the speed. Her conversation with Duncan had been altogether engrossing. But now she began to appreciate the situation, and this precluded all other considerations, even the thoughts of Chelton.
Duncan Bennet had no sister, and, consequently, was not versed in the art of "fidgets." He only knew the ailment when it took definite form. But Cora was getting it—in fact, she now felt positively nervous.
How that machine did go! The speed delighted Duncan. Tom was like an eagle bending over his prey—he urged the car on with such determination. Once or twice Cora felt bound to exclaim, but Duncan only shook his head. It was going, that was all he seemed to care for. Near the station they were obliged to slow up some to look for trains. As they did so Cora saw another car dash by, and in she recognized the man now known to her as Mr. Reed, Rob Roland's cousin.
She made no remark to Duncan; he seemed so occupied with his own thoughts. But when, after a few minutes, the same car passed them again, having made a circuit on a crossroad, and the same man stared at Cora as if to make sure it was she, she felt a queer uneasiness.
This time the other car shot ahead at such a wild pace that even
Duncan's machine was not speeding compared with that.
"Talk about going!" commented the physician; "just look at that fellow. If he can use up that much gasoline and escape the law, no need for us to worry."
The chauffeur was simply intent upon speed—he seemed to have gone speed crazy, Cora thought.
They were traveling over a perfectly straight road, and Duncan Bennet took out his field glasses.
"Here," he said to Cora, "I often find these interesting when on a long journey. Take a peek."
Cora adjusted the glasses and peered ahead.