covered her face. At last the carriage stopped.

As he sprang to the curb he became aware of another vehicle standing in
front of the house--a cab--from which Mrs. Ruthven's maid descended.

"What is she doing here?" he asked, turning in astonishment to Mrs.
Ruthven.

"Phil," she said in a low voice, "I knew you had taken this place.
Gerald told me. Forgive me--but when I saw you under the awning it came
to me in a flash what to do. And I've done it. . . . Are you sorry?"

"No. . . . Did Gerald tell you that I had taken this place?"

"Yes; I asked him."

Selwyn looked at her gravely; and she looked him very steadily in the
eyes.

"Before I go--may I say one more word?" he asked gently.

"Yes--if you please. Is it about Gerald?"

"Yes. Don't let him gamble. . . . You saw the signature on that check?"

"Yes, Phil."

"Then you understand. Don't let him do it again."

"No. And--Phil?"