Tryon Dunham interrupted these disquieting questions, by drawing his watch
from his pocket with apparent hasty remembrance, and giving a well feigned
exclamation of dismay.

"I'm sorry, Mrs. Bowman; it is too bad to interrupt this delightful
evening," he apologized; "but I'm afraid if Miss Remington feels that she
must take the next train, we shall have to make all possible speed. Miss
Remington, can you get your wraps on in three minutes? Our carriage is
probably at the door now."

With a look of relief, yet keeping up her part of dismay over the lateness
of the hour, the girl sprang to her feet, and hurried away to get her
wraps, in spite of her protesting hostess. Mrs. Bowman was held at bay
with sweet expressions of gratitude for the pleasant entertainment. The
great black picture hat was settled becomingly on the small head, the
black cloak thrown over her gown, and the gloves fitted on hurriedly to
hide the fact that they were too large.

"And whom did you say you studied with?" asked the keen hostess,
determined to be able to tell how great a guest she had harbored for the
evening.

"Oh, is Mr. Dunham calling me, Mrs. Bowman? You will excuse me for
hurrying off, won't you? And it has been so lovely of you to ask
me--perfectly delightful to find friends this way when I was a stranger."

She hurried toward the stairway and down the broad steps, and the hostess
had no choice but to follow her.