If you
like the place, then you can take Mary and the children there. I've
had a little scare in town, and propose to realize on some more
property and make myself perfectly safe. By going to a higher-priced
hotel we increase our credit also, and add to the impression I made
to-day, that we are in no danger."
As the stage drew near the piazza Graydon hastened forward to
help Madge out. In doing so he saw Miss Wildmere greeting Arnault
cordially. As he passed up the steps with Madge, he caught Stella's
swift, appealing look at him. He only bowed politely and passed on. It
was Madge's triumphal entry now by the same door at which she had seen
him enter with Miss Wildmere but a few weeks before. How complete her
triumph was, even Madge did not yet know. While she went to her room
he sought the office and ordered some of the trout he had caught to
be prepared for supper. As he stood there Miss Wildmere left Arnault's
side, and said, "Mr. Muir, are you not going to shake hands with me?"
"Why, certainly, Miss Wildmere;" but there was little more than
politeness in his tone and manner. As there were many coming and
going, she drew away with a reproachful glance. "So long as Arnault is
with me, he will not be cordial," was her thought.
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