"Well, don't be so easily conquered this time, Traverse, or I shall begin to think you have something on your mind."
Guy laughed and promised better play in the future, and as Dexie was called from the room he redeemed his character and won the next game, and during the few minutes' chat that followed Guy sought for information concerning Dexie's supposed engagement.
Mr. Sherwood did not see the drift of his remarks until Guy asked:
"There is a rumor that Miss Dexie expects to be married shortly. You will miss her very much if the rumor is correct."
"Oh! rumor has it that way, has it? Well, this time Dame Rumor is just a little astray. Strange how things do get twisted round!"
"Are you quite sure there is no foundation for the rumor, Mr. Sherwood?" and Guy held his chessman poised in the air while he waited the answer.
"Oh, well, there are some facts to start from, certainly; yet I do not see how the news could have got abroad. I feel quite sure Dexie never told anyone about it, and the matter is not known to anyone else in the house, except myself. She does not care to have the matter spoken of just at present, lest it be misconstrued."
"Then where is rumor wrong, if I may ask?"
"Well, Traverse, I promised not to speak of it, but I do not think she will mind if I tell you."
Mr. Sherwood did not notice how eagerly Guy waited for the next words, for he was studying his next move and seemed to have forgotten what he was about to communicate.