"Not to-night," she answered.
Romayne took his leave rather hurriedly.

He seemed to be out of spirits and eager to get away.

Lord Loring accompanied his guest to the door.
"You look sad and careworn," he said.

"Do you regret having left your books to pass an evening with us ?" Romayne looked up absently, and answered, "I don't know yet." Returning to report this extraordinary reply to his wife and Stella, Lord Loring found the drawing-room empty.

Eager for a little private conversation, the two ladies had gone upstairs.
"Well ?" said Lady Loring, as they sat together over the fire.