He
went straight to his own rooms, without looking in at the Molyneuxs';
for he was heated and travel-stained; and, under such circumstances, was
wont to postpone the greeting of friends to the exigencies of the
toilet. This was scarcely concluded when his servant brought him Mark
Waring's card, with a request penciled on it for an immediate interview.
Even the Cool Captain started perceptibly when he read the name. He was
well acquainted with the episode connected with it; for Cecil had kept
back none of her secrets from him, and this was among the earliest
confidences. _Then_ he had felt no inclination to sneer; but now his lip
began to curl cynically.
"_Coramba!_" he muttered; "the plot begins to thicken. What brings the
old lover _en scene_? I hope he does not mean to make himself
disagreeable. I haven't time to quarrel just now; and, besides, it would
worry Cecil. Well, we'll find out what he wants. Tell Mr. Waring that I
am disengaged, and shall be happy to see him."
The major advanced to meet his visitor with a manner that was perfectly
courteous, though it retained a tinge of haughty surprise.
"I can not guess to what I am indebted for this pleasure," he said.
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