The people went. They did have the room to themselves. She began to overwhelm him with her thanks, which, conscience-striken, he endeavoured to parry.
"I cannot tell you how grateful I am to you for coming in this spontaneous fashion--at this moment, too, of my utmost need."
"Just so."
"If you only knew how I have searched for you high and low, and now, after all, you appear in the very nick of time."
"Exactly."
"It would almost seem as if you had chosen the dramatic moment; for this is the time of all times when your presence on the scene was most desired."
"It's very good of you to say so;--but if you will allow me to interrupt you--I am afraid I am not entitled to your thanks. The fact is, I--I haven't the bag."
"You haven't the bag?"
Although he did not dare to look at her he was conscious that the fashion of her countenance had changed. At the knowledge a chill seemed to penetrate to the very marrow in his bones.
"I--I fear I haven't."