The Circular Staircase - Page 66/154

When the architect had inquired for the different members of my family,

and had finally rung off, I was certain of one thing. Louise Armstrong

was in love with Halsey, and the man she was going to marry was Doctor

Walker. Moreover, this decision was not new; marriage had been

contemplated for some time. There must certainly be some

explanation--but what was it?

That day I repeated to Louise the telegram Mr. Warton had opened.

She seemed to understand, but an unhappier face I have never seen. She

looked like a criminal whose reprieve is over, and the day of execution

approaching.