"Yes, I know; but as I have come to think it over, I see that the other cars will keep you out so much longer, I thought you would rather—"
"As you have come to think it over since you met your friends, you see that it will be more convenient for you not to take up the time by going round by the other line. Perhaps your friends want you to find their car for them. Anyway, whatever engagement you've made with them, don't keep them waiting for me; I can find my car by myself, as I said."
"Miss Dering!" in an expostulating tone, "I haven't made any engagement to hurry me away; I'm only going to dine at the Waldorf by and by with these friends,—they're Washington friends of my mother and Bessie,—but I needn't hurry, not the least, and of course I shall take you home by the other line if you like that best."
"But I don't like it best—now. I—I—"
Hope here caught sight of Dorothea's face,—the quivering lips, the eyes that were striving against tears,—and obeying a swift, warm impulse of pity and sympathy, forgot her fears in it, and called out softly,—
"Dorothea! Dorothea!"
Dorothea turned a startled glance behind her at this call. Then, "What! you here, Hope?" she exclaimed.
"Yes, with Mrs. Sibley."
"Oh, and you're going straight home—to Miss Marr's? Mrs. Sibley is to take you?" stepping back to Hope's side.
"Yes."