Part 124 (2/2)
She went to the writing-table and sat down.
”If you will allow me to suggest the wording.”
”Please--please do!”
She took up a pen and dipped it in the ink. Then Sir Seymour dictated:
SIR,--Sir Seymour Portman has told me of his meeting with you to-day and of what occurred at it. What he said to you about me is true. I _know_.
If you call you will not see me. I refuse absolutely to see you or to have anything more to do with you, now or at any future time.
”And then your name at the end.”
Miss van Tuyn wrote with a hand that slightly trembled. ”B. VAN TUYN.”
”If you will put that into an envelope and address it I will take it down and leave it at the bureau.”
”Thank you.”
Miss Van Tuyn put the note into an envelope, closed the envelope and addressed it.
”That's right.”
Sir Seymour held out his hand and she gave him the note.
”Now, good night.”
”You are going!”
He smiled slightly.
”I don't sleep at Claridge's as you and Miss Cronin do.”
”No, of course not. Thank you so very, very much! But I can never thank you properly.”
She paused. Then she said with sudden bitterness:
”And I used to pride myself on my independence!”
”Ah--independence! A word!” said Sir Seymour.
He turned away to go, but when he was near the door he stopped and seemed hesitating.
”What is it?” said Miss Van Tuyn anxiously.
”Even men sometimes have instincts,” he said, turning round.
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