“Oh, my brother and Mr. Collins! This is awful; surely there must be some ghastly mistake!”
“You must be brave,” said Allery, “and wait for Mr. Sinclair’s explanation.”
A sound was heard outside as the car shot out into the night.
“Too long a start,” said Sinclair, looking at his watch.
John had been hovering at the door, and now came forward.
“Can I be of any service, Miss?” he said.
“No, thank you, John,” said she, “except you can tell the servants to keep absolutely silent about anything that is happening. They will all know in time. Meanwhile I depend on their loyalty.”
The old man bowed. “I am sure you may depend on them, Miss; but can I get you anything?”
“Yes,” said Allery, “some strong black coffee would do us all good. I can see we are going to have a night of it.”
“Very good, sir,” said John.