you are. But, if you will permit me to say so, it is hardly prudent.
Surely you know that this is a place of ill repute and that your
motives, however innocent, might easily be misconstrued."

"I am alone!" said Madeleine gaily, "and my veil is up! Not a man
has glanced at me, I look so tiresomely respectable in these stout
walking clothes. Even you, dear Mr. Travers, whom we accuse of being
quite a gossip, understand perfectly."

"Oh, yes, indeed. I do understand. And Mrs. Talbot is like Caesar's
wife, but nevertheless--there is a hack. It is waiting, but I think
I can bribe him to take us in. You really must not remain here
another moment--and you surely do not intend to walk back--six miles?"

"No, I'll be glad to drive--but if you will engage the hack--I
shouldn't think of bothering you further."

"I shall take you home," said Travers firmly. "Howard never would
forgive me if I did not--that is--that is--"

Madeleine laughed merrily. "If I intend to tell him! But of course I
shall tell him. Why not?"

"Well, yes, it would be best. I'll speak to the man."

The Jehu was reluctant, but a bill passed and he drove up to
Madeleine. "Guess I can do it," he said, "but I'll have to drive
pretty fast."

Madeleine smiled at him and he touched his hat. She had employed him