CHAPTER XXXI
[Asking Forgiveness]
"Outside!"
The word came from Violet Forster as if it were an echo. Turning, she made a wavering and, as it seemed, almost involuntary movement towards the door; then, as if suddenly remembering, shrank back and went all red. If there were any there who smiled, it was with sympathy; as if they saw how, even against her will, the girl's heart was being drawn towards the man who was on the other side of the door.
It was Major Reith who spoke, and it seemed with unnecessary sternness.
"Do you mean that Sydney Beaton is in the building? How do you know it?"
The reply was simple.
"He promised me that he would come."
"Promised you? When?"
"He came with me as far as the barracks. I'm afraid I'm not yet very good at getting about alone, but I shall be all right soon; he knew what I was coming for, and he promised me he would wait, and that, if he heard nothing, in about half an hour he would come in."