It all came to this, that he had a most ticklish evening ahead! On the path as a rider greeted him, his reply was a dismal frown.
* * * * * Laura's suitor arrived at six o'clock.

In his study Roger heard the bell, listened a moment with beating heart, then raised himself heavily from his chair and went into the hallway.
"Ah, yes! It's you!" he exclaimed, with a nervous cordiality.

"Come in, my boy, come right in! Here, let me help you with your coat.

I don't know just where Laura is.

Ahem!" He violently cleared his throat.