"Please excuse me a moment," she murmured to Herrendene, and ran back along the middle drive. Desboro started forward to meet her at the same moment, and they met under the dripping spruces.
"Why aren't you coming with us?" she asked.
"I can't very well. I have to wait here for some people who might arrive early."
"You are going to remain here all alone?"
"Yes, until they come. You see they are dining here, and I can't let them arrive and find the house empty."
"Do you want me to stay with you? Mrs. Hammerton is in her room, and it would be perfectly proper."
He said, reddening with surprise and pleasure: "It's very sweet of you. I—had no idea you'd offer to do such a thing——"
"Why shouldn't I? Besides, I'd rather be where you are than anywhere else."
"With me, Jacqueline?"
"Are you really surprised to hear me admit it?"