Page:Conflict (1927).pdf/255



, here you are! I've looked everywhere.'

She fluttered in unexpectedly like a moth. He rose. Thank Heaven, the white bar was covered by the light coat she had put on.

'Felix has gone to put the automobile in the garage,' she explained. 'I wanted to tell you how sorry I am about to-night. I can't go with you now, of course.'

'Of course.'

There was a pause.

'I'm sorry.'

'So am I.'

There was another pause.

'I may not have another chance to see you again. And I want to tell you how much I appreciate everything you've done for me here, and thank you for all—'

'Please don't,' he interrupted.

There was a third pause.

Why did he make it so difficult? It had always been so easy to talk to him before. Now a great space seemed to yawn between them.

'Well, good-bye,' she brought out abruptly, and offered him her hand. But he didn't take it. Oh,