when he saw in front of him, almost within reach of an outstretched
hand, the same young man waiting also. After what seemed a long
time, he saw his sister and her two companions come slowly down the
stair in the descending crowd. Her eyes seemed searching amongst
the multitude that filled the lobby. Presently an indubitable glance
of still recognition passed between them, and by a slight movement
the young man placed himself so that she must pass next him in
the crowd. Malcolm got one place nearer in the change, and thought
they grasped hands. She turned her head slightly back, and seemed
to put a question--with her lips only. He replied in the same
manner. A light rushed into her face and vanished. But not a feature
moved and not a word had been spoken. Neither of her companions
had seen the dumb show, and her friend stood where he was till they
had left the house. Malcolm stood also, much inclined to follow
him when he went, but, his attention having been attracted for a
moment in another direction, when he looked again he had disappeared.
He sought him where he fancied he saw the movement of his vanishing,
but was soon convinced of the uselessness of the attempt, and walked
home.

Before he reached his lodging, he had resolved on making trial of
a plan which had more than once occurred to him, but had as often
been rejected as too full of the risk of repulse.



CHAPTER XI: DEMON AND THE PIPES


His plan was to watch the house until he saw some entertainment