“I have consented to your taking an hour’s drive in the park with this gentleman, my dear, if you wish.”
“Let it be this afternoon. I will call for you promptly at four o’clock,” he added, smiling at her as he bowed himself out.
Madame Barto laughed knowingly, and exclaimed:
“You pretty child, you are fortunate to have Frank Laurier pay you such attention. He is well-born, and rolling in wealth. Your dark eyes have turned his head! Hark, the bell again!” and she retreated quickly to her parlor.
Jessie hurried to the door, and again her unconscious hand opened the door to destiny.
A beautiful brunette of about twenty, richly gowned, and with an imperious air, entered the hall, and said curtly:
“I wish to see Madame Barto quickly.”
Jessie carried the message, and said:
“This young lady looks as pale and agitated as the young man who has just left.”
“Oh, it’s another love scrape, I suppose. That’s what usually brings them here! Well, you may send her in at once!”