"Why didn't you keep her prisoner, when you had her last night?"
"That was a serious blunder; it won't happen again."
"H-u-m," reflected Harleston; and his glance sought Mrs. Spencer's and
held it. "Where is Mrs. Clephane now?" he demanded.
For just an instant her eyes narrowed and grew very dark. Then suddenly
she laughed--lightly, with just a suggestion of mockery in the tones.
"Mrs. Clephane--is yonder!" said she.
Harleston turned quickly. Mrs. Clephane was coming down the corridor.
XI
HALF A LIE
"Somewhat unexpected, isn't it?" Harleston asked.
"To whom--you, her, or myself?" Mrs. Spencer inquired.
"To you."
"Not at _all_. I'm never surprised at anything!" Then just a trace of
derision came into her face. "Won't you present me, Mr. Harleston?"
"Certainly, I will," he responded gravely, and arose.
"Another unexpected!" she mocked. "But she _is_ good to look at, Guy, I
must grant you that. Also--" and she laughed lightly.
"One moment," said he tranquilly, and turned toward Mrs. Clephane--who
had caught sight of him and was undecided what to do.
Now, smiling adorably, she came to meet him.
"The two beauties of the season!" he thought; and as he bowed over her
hand he whispered: "Not a word of explanation _now_; and play ignorance
of _everything_.
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