She must not suspect my weakness, at least until I had heard her story, and knew the worst I might expect.

“It shall be as you say, Hildegarde. This has been such a strange fortune that threw us together I had begun to hope there might be a meaning to it; but I shall respect your wishes always.”

I turned to go.

“One other favor, Morgan.”

“A dozen, if you like.”

“Would it be possible for the present to keep my identity unknown?”

I knew she was thinking of Diana—her red cheeks betrayed her.

“Why not, if you desire it?” I replied.

“You are very kind; it would please me.”

“Shall I send Carmencita to you? She can act as your maid, as I presume she is?”