"You mean——?"
"The English have written to me and request that I cease to trouble the department with my importunities. For I myself had written to them again, that I might find grace in your eyes by accomplishing your desires. They say to me that it is useless. The plague is more serious than the convenience of my visitors, and all must be done according to rule. When there is no danger you may depart."
The crash of hopes went echoing to the farthest reaches of her consciousness. But pride stiffened her to dissemble, and she tried to smile as she mechanically accepted the Captain's invitation to be seated at the little candle-lighted table.
"There was no word to me personally?" she asked.
"None, but the telegram which came this morning. I judged that it was not of a significance, for you did not send me a report."
"No—it was not of a significance," she repeated, with a ghost of a little smile. "It was from the Evershams."
"Ah! Their condolences, I think?... And is it that they still make the Nile trip?"
"Yes.... They went this morning." She spoke hesitantly, averse to having this eager-eyed young host perceive how truly deserted she was. "They expect me to take the express train later and join them."
"It is only a night's ride to Assouan." He spoke soothingly. "But you are not eating, Miss Beecher. I recommend this consommé."
It was worth the recommending. Miss Beecher spooned it slowly, then demanded, "Why was I not called when the doctor came?"