It was Weldon who spoke first, however, and
his voice was level, for he was generous enough to take none of the
advantage which so plainly was all upon his side.
"Miss Dent and I are old acquaintances," he said quietly.
Fortunately the captain was garrulous.
"Another proof of the smallness of the world," he said jovially. "In
time, I shall learn the futility of introductions. One is always
pointing out next-door neighbors to each other's notice. By the way,
Weldon, didn't you know Frazer rather well? I used to meet him at
your house so often, Miss Dent."
Ethel's fingers shut upon the sticks of her fan.
"Yes," she assented. "Captain Frazer was one of our best friends."
All at once, the face of the young captain grew grave.
"I remember now," he said quite slowly. "But his loss was a sorrow
to us all. His place can never be entirely filled."
There came a momentary pause. Then, as the captain's broad shoulders
vanished in the heart of the crowd, Weldon turned and looked Ethel
squarely between the eyes.
"Believe me, Miss Dent," he said simply; "this is none of my doing."
She made no pretence of misunderstanding him. Instead of that, her
quiet voice was full of bitterness, as she gave brief answer,--
"Quite obviously, Mr.
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