Had somebody been watching me through the chink?
I stepped softly to the door, and pushed it back until it was wide open.

There was the Major, discovered in the front room! I saw it in his face--he had been watching me at the book-case! His hat was in his hand.

He was evidently going out; and he dexterously took advantage of that circumstance to give a plausible reason for being so near the door.
"I hope I didn't frighten you," he said.
"You startled me a little, Major." "I am so sorry, and so ashamed! I was just going to open the door, and tell you that I am obliged to go out.

I have received a pressing message from a lady.

A charming person--I should so like you to know her.