Mounting the porch steps, he found himself in the presence of Major Edward playing Patience in the shade of the climbing rose.

The player started violently.

"I thought, sir," he said, wheeling in his chair, "I thought you yet in the blue room! How the deuce!--I was on guard--" the Major caught himself.

"I was waiting to renew our very interesting discussion.

Where have you been ?" "I have been in the garden," said Rand.