The figure of Maruja, evidently alarmed at his approach, glided into the hedge, as Pereo passed swiftly by, intent only on his one wild fancy.

Without a further thought of his companion or even the luckless Faquita, Carroll also plunged through the hedge, to intercept Maruja.

But by that time she was already crossing the upper end of the lawn, hurrying towards the entrance to the patio.

Carroll did not hesitate to follow.

Keeping in view the lithe, dark, active little figure, now hidden by an intervening cluster of bushes, now fading in the gathering evening shadows, he nevertheless did not succeed in gaining upon her until she had nearly reached the patio.