Sardonyx arose. He had been sitting like a statue, but
the words and departure of his fellow-victim seemed to restore
consciousness.
"Am I to understand, Miss Dane, that this is the answer you meant when
you invited me here to-day?" he sternly asked.
"Did I really invite you? Oh, yes! Of course, Mr. Sardonyx, it must
have been. I purposely kept my engagement secret since my return from
Washington in order to give you an agreeable surprise."
"I am exceedingly obliged to you. Believe me, I will prove my gratitude
if ever opportunity offers."
Miss Dane bowed and smiled. Sir Roger looked hopelessly bewildered. Mr.
Sardonyx took his hat.
"Farewell, Miss Dane, and many thanks."
He was gone. Hugh Ingelow alone remained--Hugh Ingelow, white and cold
as a dead man. Mollie's heart smote her cruelly for the second time at
sight of him. He arose as the lawyer disappeared.
"You have nothing more to say to me, Miss Dane?"
Mollie lifted her eyebrows.
"My dear Mr. Ingelow, what should I possibly have to say to you, except
that we will always be most happy to see you--Sir Roger and I?"
"Always," echoed the baronet, with a stately bend.
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