"
"Mine also," chimed in Lawyer Sardonyx.
"Suppose we all postpone forming an opinion on the subject," said the
lazy voice of the young artist, "until to-morrow, and allow Miss Dane,
when the has recovered from her present fatigue and hunger, to explain
for herself."
"Thanks, Ingelow"--Mr. Walraven turned a grateful glance upon the
lounging artist--"and, meantime, gentlemen, let us adjourn to the
drawing-room. Standing talking here I don't admire."
He led the way; the others followed--Sir Roger last of all, lost in a
maze of bewilderment that utterly spoiled his joy at his bride's return.
"What can it mean? What can it mean?" he kept perpetually asking
himself. "What is all this mystery? Surely--surely it can not be as
these men say! Mollie can not have gone off of herself!"
It was rather dull the remainder of the evening. The guests took their
departure early. Sir Roger lingered behind the rest, and when alone with
him the master of the house summoned Lucy. That handmaiden appeared, her
eyes dancing with delight in her head.
"Where is your mistress, Lucy?" Mr.
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