Better luck next time. I was quite dreading disappointing
you, but Lois, as usual, has taken my disagreeable task from me." He
patted the hand which still rested on his own. "Stay and have a little
dinner with us," he added cordially, as Nicholson prepared to take his
leave. "I'd like to make up to you with a little of my best Cliquot."
Nicholson shook his head. The impression that he stood before a veiled
and unpleasant comedy increased his desire to get away.
"Thanks, I'm afraid I can't," he said. "I have work to do. Good
night."
"Good night. To our next meeting in Marut!" The two men shook hands.
"Good night, Mrs. Travers. You will be able to be your own messenger
now," Nicholson said.
She met his glance with quiet courage.
"They will be able to see with their own eyes that things are going
well with me," she answered simply.
When the door closed upon Nicholson's tall form she went back to her
husband's side. He was busy consulting time-tables, and hardly seemed
aware of her approach. Only when she touched him on the arm did he
look up.
"Well, what is it?"
"I want to know if you are angry?"
"What about?"
"The shares--and Captain Nicholson. I felt it was wrong to deceive
him. He is not rich, and you told me that the mine was a failure."
"Of course, you have every reason, no doubt, to consider your friend
before your husband," he said with a sudden outburst which he
instantly regretted.
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