To Patsy’s surprise, Lannigan’s purpose in going to that place was to meet Mrs. Ladew. He sat down with that person on a circular cushioned seat that surrounded a pillar, and engaged her in earnest conversation.
On the other side of this circular cushion sat an elderly gentleman engaged in reading his newspaper.
The interview between Lannigan and Mrs. Ladew was brief. Whatever passed between them, unheard, of course, by Patsy, was most disagreeable to Mrs. Ladew, but she yielded, apparently, to whatever was urged by Lannigan.
Having obtained her consent, Lannigan arose to his feet, as if to go away, but stood a moment longer to talk with Mrs. Ladew.
The elderly gentleman, rising and folding his paper, sauntered leisurely toward the door of the parlor and passing Patsy, said:
“Put Chick on Lannigan and come back here to me.”
Patsy gasped:
“Holy smoke, the chief!” he said, to himself.
But he did not wait to say more, but hurried after Lannigan, who had gone out.
Mrs. Ladew, waiting a reasonable time, also undertook to leave the apartment, when she was met by the elderly gentleman.