"The French windows there, and out the back way through the stable!" With a cat's silent swiftness he was at the windows, Miss Gardner beside him.

But in the back-yard stood William, the coachman, sunning himself.

That way was closed.
"Into the study," whispered Miss Gardner, pointing at a door, "and watch your chance to get out!" In the same instant the heavy sound-proof mahogany door closed softly behind him--leaving Miss Gardner in the middle of the room, with heightened color, breathing rapidly.

Into the library swept Mrs.De Peyster, followed by Olivetta and Matilda.
There was a lofty sternness in Mrs.De Peyster's manner.

"Miss Gardner, I believe I heard you speaking with a man." "You did." Miss Gardner was stiff, proudly erect, for she sensed what might be coming.
"Where is he ?" "He went out through the window," said Miss Gardner.
"Ah, he did not want me to find out about you.