Nell of Shorne Mills

"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!"