Yet he would say what he had come to say. He cleared his throat.
"The doctor suggested to me that he should send our neighbour, Mrs. Ferris, to call upon you in a day or two. I don't suppose you will like her much, but she is about the only person available. She is one of nature's mistakes—daughter of a colonel, and ought to have worked in a factory. However, they tell me she is a good sort. She has a motor, and would take you for a spin. I want you to understand that, if you go out with her, it is only on conditions—that it would be of no use for you to attempt to escape."
Virgie was so surprised that she dropped the sugar-tongs. "To escape!"
"From me."
"I don't understand——"
"I think you do. If Mrs. Ferris motors you to any place where there is a railway station you might be tempted to take the train and go off. I ought to tell you that if you do, I shall bring you back."
"You suppose that I should—that I should let Mrs. Ferris into the secret of my—of your—of our——"
"What more likely?"
"If you think so," replied Virginia with shaking voice, "please don't let Mrs. Ferris come. I did not ask—you must not think I asked the doctor—for company or complained of loneliness. I am——" she could not go on.
"Have I your word that if I allow you to go about as you like you will make no attempt to leave me?"