Later on he learned from Gussie that Dexie had turned "sulky" at the last
moment and refused to come. His face lighted up at the information, and
Gussie never knew that her news sent him to make excuses and adieus to his
hostess, and drove him homeward at a pace that seemed unnecessary, seeing
that he had so much leisure time at his command.
Dexie had gone to the parlor to get a book, and stepping to the bow window
to draw the curtains, saw his well-known figure hurrying down the street.
"Goodness! here is Hugh coming back! What has happened, I wonder?"
It took her but a moment to fasten the hall-door, and running to the
kitchen, said:
"Nancy, if anyone calls, do not admit them to-night. You can say the family
are out. I am going to the upper hall to finish my book." Then, laying her
hand on Nancy's arm, she said in a low tone: "Don't let Hugh McNeil come in
to-night, Nancy. I have fastened the front door, so he can't come in unless
you let him."
"Rest easy, missie; you shan't be troubled if you don't like. But I mind he
is off to the party with the rest."
"I have seen him coming back, so I wanted to warn you.
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