Gustavo sent the boot-boy flying down the arbor to search the garden; he was beginning to feel anxious.

What if the gentleman in a sudden fit of melancholia had thrown himself into the lake?
That would indeed be an unfortunate affair! Constance reassured him, and at the same time she arose.

It occurred to her suddenly that, since the young man was going, there was nothing to be gained by waiting, and he might think--She picked up her parasol and started for the gate, but Mr.Wilder hung back; he wanted to see the matter out.
"Father," said she reproachfully, "it's embarrassing enough for him to fee all those people without our staying and watching him do it." "I suppose it is," he acknowledged regretfully, as he resumed his hat and umbrella and palm leaf fan.
She paused for a second in the gateway.
"_Addio_, Gustavo," she called over her shoulder.

"_Don't_ forget the earrings." Gustavo bowed twice and turned back with a dazed air to direct the business in hand.

The boot-boy, reappearing, shook his head.