She was about to go just as you came; so do not
reproach yourself for having driven her away."
For some time the penciled conversation continued between the two; but
as it was all based upon the fanciful pupil whom the investigator
stated he desired to place in Dr. Mercer's care, Pendleton paid little
heed to it. At last, however, they bid the Professor good-by, and left
him upon the threshold, his massive head nodding his adieus, his frail
little body sharply outlined by the glow from the hall.
The two had reached their own car around on the other road before
Pendleton spoke. Then he inquired:
"Well, have you learned anything from him?"
"I think I can say 'yes' to that," answered the other. "But I'm not
yet sure. I'll have to put it to the proof first, according to the
formula which I gave you a half hour ago. If it succeeds, I'll tell
you what it is; if it does not, I'll say nothing, and it will go upon
the scrap heap devoted to broken fancies. And now, Dixon," to the
chauffeur, "we'll go home."
CHAPTER XVI
STEEL AGAINST STEEL
Shortly before noon next day, Ashton-Kirk, in an immaculate morning
suit, was ushered into the presence of Miss Edyth Vale. If he expected
confusion, embarrassment or anything of that sort, he was
disappointed; for she greeted him eagerly and with outstretched hand.
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