He put his hand on her shoulder: "Come. We must return to-night, at least part of the way," with quiet authority.
He drew her toward him, stooped to kiss her lips.
At that moment there was a loud knocking at the outer door, and a man and woman entered. Van Ness saw them. His hand fell from Jane's arm, his countenance relaxed: for a moment he stood unnerved: then with quick decision he stepped boldly forward to meet them, drawing to the door of the chamber behind him.
"Charlotte?"
"Yes," with a shrug, "or Princess Trebizoff, Madame Varens, what you choose. By any other name I am as dear to you. Heavens! what a chase!" perching herself airily on the settle in front of the fire. "I am one living ache.—I can't congratulate you on your roads, madam. But your scenery! Ah, that goes to the heart!"
Mr. Neckart stood beside her, calmly waiting until Van Ness should turn to him. The great reformer was brought to bay: he was alert, prompt, ready.
"You followed me here, Mr. Neckart?" turning sharply.
"Yes."
"For what purpose?"
"To bring your wife to you," glancing at Charlotte.