But to-night he waited in vain, and when at last he pushed his way
round to the stage door it was only to be told that Miss Farrow had
left the theatre directly the play was over.

Challoner's heart stood still for a moment. She had done this
deliberately to avoid him, he was sure. He asked an agitated question.

"Did she--did she go alone?"

The doorkeeper answered without looking at him, "There was a gent with
her, sir--Mr. Mortlake, I think."

Challoner went out into the night blindly. He had to pass the theatre
to get back to the main street. Mrs. Wyatt and Christine were just
entering a taxi. Christine saw him. She touched his arm diffidently
as he passed.

"Jimmy!"

Challoner pulled up short. He would have avoided them had it been at
all possible.

Mortlake! she had gone with that brute, whilst he--he answered Mrs.
Wyatt mechanically.

"Thanks--thanks very much. I was going to walk, but if you will be so
kind as to give me a lift."

He really hardly knew what he was saying. He took off his hat and