"There is danger in that," said Lady Chesney gravely. "One never knows
what a man may do in a moment of pique. They are strange animals."
"You mean that he might be caught on the rebound, and marry some 'dusky
bride' or ruddy-cheeked dairymaid?" said Lady Luce, with a little laugh
of scorn. "You don't know Drake. He's the last man to marry beneath him.
If I were not afraid of seeming egotistical, dear, I would say that he
has known me too long and loved me too well----But there! don't let us
talk any more about it. The gods may send him to my side again. If they
do, I shall avail myself of their gracious favor and get him back; if
not----" She sighed, and shrugged her shoulders. "Heavens! how I wish I
had a cigarette!"
"My dear, you shall have one," said Lady Chesney, with a laugh. "I know
where the smoking room is. I'll go and get you one, you poor, dear
soul!"
She went in, and Nell rose from her seat. She could not remain a moment
longer, even if she had to tell this lady she had overheard their
conversation, and beg her pardon for having played, most reluctantly,
the eavesdropper. But as she stood fighting with her nervousness, a man
came out through the window. Her heart leaped with relief and
thanksgiving, for it was Drake.
"Is that you?" he said, as he saw the figure against the coping.
Lady Luce turned; the light streamed full upon her face, and he stopped
dead short and stared at her.
"Luce!" he exclaimed, in a low voice.
She stood for a moment as motionless as one of the statues. Another
woman would have started, would probably have shrunk back, with a cry of
amazement or of joy; but she stood for just that instant, motionless and
silent, and looking at him with her eyes dilating with surprise and
delight. Then, holding out both hands, she moved toward him, murmuring: "Drake! Thank God!"