Part 46 (1/2)

I knew you would come. Strange that I had to send for you so soon after last night--

(_With alarm and sudden change of manner._) What is the matter? You are sick. Your hand is cold.

(_She warms it in both of her hands._)

{Knox}

It is flame or freeze with me.

(_Smiling._) And I'd rather flame.

{Margaret}

(_Becoming aware that she is warming his hand._)

Sit down and tell me what is the matter.

(_Leading him by the hand she seats him, at the same time seating herself._)

{Knox}

(_Abruptly._) After you left last night, Hubbard stole those doc.u.ments back again.

{Margaret}

(_Very matter-of-fact._) Yes; he was in your bedroom while I was there.

{Knox}

(_Startled._) How do you know that? Anyway, he did not know who you were.

{Margaret}

Oh yes he did.

{Knox}

(_Angrily._) And he has dared--?

{Margaret}

Yes; not two hours ago. He announced the fact before my father, my mother, Connie, the servants, everybody.

{Knox}

(_Rising to his feet and beginning to pace perturbedly up and down._) The cur!

{Margaret} (_Quietly._) I believe, among other things, I told him he was that myself.

(_She laughs cynically._) Oh, it was a pretty family party, I a.s.sure you. Mother said she didn't believe it--but that was only hysteria. Of course she believes it--the worst. So does Connie--everybody.