Miller opened the door at last, in the act of thrusting one arm into his coat. By the time Colonel Faversham had crossed the threshold the butler had assumed his usual deferential stoop and his manner was as suave as ever.
"Good-morning, Miller," said Colonel Faversham, pacified the instant he obtained admittance. "I am rather early. Miss Rosser?"
"Miss Rosser is not here, colonel," was the astounding answer.
"Not here! Good gracious! What do you mean?"
"Miss Rosser left the house at half-past three yesterday afternoon, colonel."
"Do you mean to tell me she has not returned?" demanded Colonel
Faversham.
"No," said Miller.
"But I have an appointment with her this morning!"
"I understand that Miss Rosser is not coming back, colonel," answered
Miller.
Colonel Faversham was ceasing to look entirely bewildered. He grew exceedingly red in the face; his eyes appeared to be starting out of his head. Horrible thoughts occurred to him. He glared at Miller as if he were responsible for Bridget's departure, and with miserable sensations he began to put a new interpretation upon the coyness which he had found so seductive yesterday morning.