She had never talked
to him so freely before, and Hugh was lifted up with hope at this
unexpected friendliness.
When they reached home, Hugh detained her at the door.
"Will you grant me a favor, Dexie?" he asked. "Do not go into an auction
room alone again; without me, I mean. You know I am always at your service,
and will only be too happy to help you at any time. You will grant me this,
Dexie?" and he looked earnestly into her face for an answer.
A number of expressions passed over Dexie's face as he spoke. Had she done
a bold, imprudent thing in attending the sale without an escort? She had
not given it a thought. Surely one might go about a matter of business
without a gentleman's escort? The Fremont girls did so. That it might be
improper had not occurred to her, and it vexed her to be reminded of it by
Hugh, so his well-meant offer failed to soften her.
"Yes, and no," Dexie coldly replied. "I will promise not to go again alone,
but I won't promise to go in your company again," and she turned and
entered the house.
Why had he spoken and lifted again the barrier of reserve that had broken
down during their morning's intercourse? was Hugh's thought as he entered
his own door.
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