"Perhaps, then, you'll go away, and when you are sure——"

"Come back again?" hazards he.

"I didn't say that. You look and talk like a gentleman, and if, as I hope, you are one, you will know that I can't see strangers—people who have no business with me—and so you must excuse me." She has risen and moves with some dignity toward the door.

"One moment," he interposes. "Forgive me; you know for your part that it is impossible I should wish to offend——"

"How should I? You come here to me a stranger, and refuse to say what for."

"No. I did not refuse. I only said I was not sure that I knew why I came."

"Then you must be crazy!" she blurts out impulsively.

"Perhaps I am. I begin to think so."

"Then I wish you would go away!" she goes on with apprehension. "I'll tell you what, Mr. Bellario is here, and he's—oh, terribly strong!"

"Mr. Bellario?" he echoes.