coming up, but had remained, as I supposed, within sight. But at
this moment he was nowhere to be seen. Was I afraid on his
account? Impossible; yet--

Happily just then the word was passed about that the police had
given orders that, with the exception of such as had been
requested to remain to answer questions, the guests generally
should feel themselves at liberty to depart.

The time had now come to take a stand and I informed my uncle, to
his evident chagrin, that I should not leave as long as any
excuse could be found for staying.

He said nothing at the time, but as the noise of departing
carriages gradually lessened and the great hall and drawing-rooms
began to wear a look of desertion he at last ventured on this
gentle protest:

"You have more pluck, Rita, than I supposed. Do you think it wise
to stay on here? Will not people imagine that you have been
requested to do so? Look at those waiters hanging about in the
different doorways. Run up and put on your wraps. Mr. Durand will
come to the house fast enough as soon as he is released. I give
you leave to sit up for him if you will; only let us leave this
place before that impertinent little man dares to come around
again," he artfully added.

But I stood firm, though somewhat moved by his final suggestion;
and, being a small tyrant in my way, at least with him, I carried
my point.