"You know very well it is
Runnels' doing," she said.
"Oh, there are six of them in it altogether, but Anthony
originated the little surprise. It's intended for you, of course."
"I don't see it. Are you going?"
"I accepted."
"What do you mean by that?"
"Bah! They won't give it," he said, harshly.
"And why not? I think it is rather nice of those chaps. Of course,
Runnels would like to ingratiate himself with you--"
"Funny spectacle, eh? Me the guest of--Anthony!"
There was a trace of anxiety in her voice as she answered, and,
though she spoke carelessly, she did not meet his eyes.
"I--I'd rather you'd make an excuse. I'll have to go home alone,
you know."
He raised his brows mockingly. "My DEAR! I'm to be the honored
guest."
"Suit yourself, of course."
A marine officer approached, mopping his face, and engaged her in
conversation, whereupon Cortlandt rose languidly and strolled away
through the crowd that came eddying forth from the ballroom.
Meanwhile, Kirk had found Runnels, who was looking for him, eager
to express his congratulations and to discuss their exploit in
detail.
"I've just taken the wife home," he explained. "I never saw
anybody so excited. If she'd stayed here she'd have given the
whole thing away, sure.
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