Ralph jumped to his feet.
"I said some one was coming; and he's been here before, whoever he is." At that he walked to the door and opened it.

Laddie was there before him.
"Is Ralph Ray here ?" It was the voice of a woman, charged with feeling.
Ralph's back had been to the light, and hence his face had not been recognized.

But the light fell on the face of the new-comer.
"Rotha!" he said.

He drew her in, and was about to shut out the storm behind her.
"No," she said almost nervously.

"Come with me; some one waits outside to see you; some one who won't--can't come in." She was wet; her hair was matted over her forehead, the sleet lying in beads upon it.