Without waiting for further announcement the visitors came in; in front Robert Spencer; behind him Herbert Nash, with Elaine at his side. When the lovers saw each other, each stood gazing as if fearful that the other was some entrancing vision which might resolve itself into air and vanish. Both cried, as if it was the most delightful and wonderful thing in the world that it should be so--
"You!"
They advanced, and only just in the nick of time remembered that there were others there; they could not have got closer and kept out of each other's arms. Mr. Spencer spoke as if in an ecstasy.
"You queen of dear women, I've ransacked all the stray corners of the world for you! Where have you been hiding?"
"Why," she replied, "I've been trying to earn my living."
"My Lady Quixote! all the while you've been a millionaire!"
"So Mr. Clifford has just told me. I haven't had time to realize it yet; but I think I'm glad."
"You only think?"
"I'm sure." She added--they were so close!--these words, which reached his ear only, "For your sake!" As she whispered her face crimsoned. Before he could answer she had moved forward. "Elaine!" When she advanced the other shrank back. "Why, Elaine, what's the matter?"
Mr. Spencer spoke.