Page:Elizabeth Jordan--Tales of the city room.djvu/78

 time that dreary possibility began to put on the guise of the probable.

As she turned toward Broadway she heard quick steps beside her and glanced up with a smile, expecting to see the sympathetic face of the woman in black. Instead, she looked into a pair of dark gray eyes under heavy brows which almost met over a sharply aquiline nose. She saw an immaculate silk hat raised, and became at the same time aware that this very handsome, well-dressed stranger was speaking to her.

"Good-evening," said that individual, with genial coolness.

"Good-evening," replied Miss Imboden, with indecision.

The erect military figure beside her adapted his step to hers and walked on by her side like an old acquaintance.

"May I ask where you are going?" he said.

His voice had the quiet interest and assured tone of a friendship which warranted the question. Miss Imboden, who appreciated the artistic, appreciated it even in these trying circumstances. She hesitated a moment then let herself drift with the tide.