“Agreed!”
My challenger was nearest to the door, and started first. I followed three steps after.
In the vestibule I paused—only for a second—to see whether my exit was being noted by the kneeling Mercedes.
It was. She was gazing after me—no longer by stealth; but in surprise; I fancied in chagrin!
Had she divined the cause of my abrupt departure?
That was scarcely probable.
In the position lately occupied by my unknown challenger, she could not have seen him. The statue interposed; and the column covered him, as he stepped towards the door.
I returned her glance by one intended to reassure her. With my eyes I said:—
“A moment, sweet saint, and you shall see me again!”