Colonel Egerton was beginning in tones of no small surprise, when the door opened, and Mesdames Storey and Winter entered.
The greeting between Mrs. Winter and Egerton was considerably more demonstrative than any that had yet occurred; the kind little woman was evidently touched by the genuine delight evinced by her quondam patient at seeing her; and Winter smiled to see Colonel Egerton's more deep happiness take this method of expression; Mrs. Storey simpered and curtsied and nodded to Kate, and was altogether, as she said, "quite taken with Colonel Egerton;" and sat on till her friends wished her far away. The conversation was, therefore, general; and Miss Vernon unusually silent.
Egerton felt he could make no enquiries then, so rose to leave, having paid an unconscionably long visit.
"I have a letter for nurse," said he to Kate, "which my ignorance of her whereabouts has prevented my forwarding; if you will allow me, I will bring it here to-morrow morning, and hear all about her, and everything. I have so many questions to ask; but I promised to see Sir J. M—— at the Horse Guards to-day, and must go. I presume you are visible early?"
"Can't you join us at dinner, a lodging-house scramble? but, I suppose, an old campaigner as you are, can rough it," said Winter, with eager hospitality, that startled his precise wife.
"With the greatest pleasure," cried Egerton, in his old, gay, frank manner. "I was just wishing you would ask me."
Winter and Kate smiled; and Mrs. Storey opened her eyes, astonished at so cool an admission.
"Au revoir, then," continued Colonel Egerton, taking his hat, and bowing. "I will bring you the letter, Miss Vernon."
"Is five o'clock too early?" shouted Winter, after him, as he ran down stairs.