"Roy! I am so glad you have come!" she exclaimed, holding out both hands to him, her face radiant with happiness.
CHAPTER XXXVII.
"MY DARLING, YOU ARE FREE!"
The young man regarded her with astonishment, for she had never greeted him so warmly before.
Edith saw his look and met it with a blush. She took his hat, then led him directly to Mrs. Stewart.
"Roy, you will be astonished," she remarked, "but my first duty is to introduce you to—my mother."
With a look of blank amazement, the young man mechanically put out his hand to greet the beautiful woman who approached and graciously welcomed him.
"That was rather an abrupt and startling announcement, Mr. Bryant," she smilingly remarked, to cover his confusion; "but pray be seated and we will soon explain the mysterious situation."
"Pardon my bewilderment," said the young man, as he bowed over her extended hand; "but really, ladies, I am free to confess that you have almost taken my breath away."