She had little time to collect her thoughts, for the subject of them hurried in soon after she entered the parlor.
There was an ugly frown on his face. Evidently the interview from which he had just come had irritated him.
He strode to the corner where he had left his companion and stared about him perplexedly; then turned an angry questioning look upon Mrs. Dunlap.
"Are you looking for the lady who was here when you left the room?" She asked pleasantly, determined to be courteous if possible. "She has gone to my room to get some rest, and asked me to say to you that she is all right and quite comfortable for the night."
He strode toward her with a glare in his eyes that would have frightened a less courageous spirit, and spoke in an angry voice: "Who are you that you presume to interfere in the lady's affairs?" he said haughtily. "I have a room for her to rest in, and you will oblige me by telling her that I am waiting for her, and then by minding your own business."
Mrs. Dunlap had the advantage of this angry man; she was perfectly cool and calm.
"You are mistaken," she said. "I have the right to interfere, because the lady has claimed my protection and I am abundantly able and willing to give it."
"Protection from what!" he thundered.
"From Mr. Keller, I fancy. I supposed, of course, that the lady in question was your wife, as I had seen you together during the day, and noticed how you registered. Since she has informed me that she is not; and, furthermore, that she does not wish to see you again to-night, I have aided her in carrying out her wishes and must insist on her not being disturbed."
"Must you indeed! How do you expect to accomplish the task of keeping me away from the lady who is under my protection, and for whom I alone am responsible?"