were accustomed to read from the lips, were
now free to look about. A swift, unbidden gladness leapt up into them
at first as she recognized Rimrock in the crowd; and then, quick as
lightning, she saw the other woman and the glad look went out of her
eyes. They flared up suddenly with the old anger and resentment and as
quickly took on a distant stare. Then they turned to her escort and as
Rimrock was shoved past them he heard her answer him pleasantly. It
was just a word, only a fraction of a word, and then Mrs. Hardesty
broke in. What she said fell again upon unheeding ears, but Rimrock
knew it was harsh. Harsh and threatening and yet with an undertone of
passion that thrilled him against his will.

He found himself in a gliding auto' with the street lights twinkling
past, and there he came out of his dream.

"What's the matter with you?" he asked at last as he discovered her
still walking on and she burst into hysterical tears.

"What's the matter!" she echoed, "why, can't you see? I'm in love with
you--that's what's the matter! Oh, I hate that woman! She's a cruel
thing--didn't you see the way she looked at me? But I'll pay her back,
I'll get even with her yet! Ah, my God, how I hate the sight of her!"

She fell to weeping and Rimrock, silenced, drew away and left her
alone. Then the automobile stopped and through the glass they could
see the imposing entrance of the St. Cyngia. The chauffeur reached
back and threw open the door and Rimrock leapt quickly out, but Mrs.
Hardesty did not follow. She sat in the half-darkness, composing her
hair and working swiftly to cover the traces of tears; and when she
stepped out she was calm.

"Excuse me," she whispered as he led her towards the door, "I didn't
mean what I said. But I do love you, Rimrock, in spite of myself,
and--won't you come in for a moment?"

They stood at the entrance and the Sphinxlike doorman opened the door
to let them pass. Outside it was cold and from the portals there came
forth a breath of warm air, but for the first time Rimrock held back.

"No, thank you very much," he said, bowing formally, and turned quickly
back towards the car. She watched him a moment, then drew her cloak
about her and hurried in swiftly through the door.

CHAPTER XX

A LETTER FROM THE SECRETARY

As Mrs. Hardesty guessed, Rimrock was hurrying away in order to follow
Mary Fortune; and as Rimrock guessed, she had invited him in to keep
him from