Why not now ?" Miriam pondered.
"I'll go and see if they are at leisure." During her absence, Elgar examined the books on the table.

He turned over each one with angry mutterings.

The chapel plans were no longer lying about; only yesterday Miriam had rolled them up and put them away--temporarily.

Before the "St.Cecilia" he stood in thoughtful observation, and was still there when Miriam returned.

She had a look of uneasiness.
"Miss Doran and her aunt are with Mrs.Spence, Reuben." "Oh, in that case--" he began carelessly, with a wave of the arm.
"But they will be glad to see you." "Indeed?
I look rather seedy, I'm afraid." "Take off your overcoat." "I'm all grimy.