Personally I am at your disposal."
He looked at them expectantly.
"The very thing!" "Oh, no!" cried Orde and Carroll in unison.
Nevertheless, in spite of this divergence of opinion, ten minutes
later the three passed through the door into the back apartment--
Carroll still hesitant, Orde in triumph, Gerald as correct and
unemotional as ever.
In this back room they found waiting a young clergyman conversing
easily with two young girls. At the sight of Carroll, these latter
rushed forward and overwhelmed her with endearments. Carroll broke
into a quickly suppressed sob and clasped them close to her.
"Oh, you dears!" she cried, "I'm so glad you're here!" She flashed
a grateful look in Gerald's direction, and a moment later took
occasion to press his arm and whisper:
"You've thought of everything! You're the dearest brother in the
world!"
Gerald received this calmly, and set about organising the ceremony.
In fifteen minutes the little party separated at the front door,
amid a chatter of congratulations and good wishes. Mr. and Mrs.
Orde entered the cab and drove away.
XX
"Oh, it IS the best way, dear, after all!" cried Carroll, pressing
close to her husband. "A few minutes ago I was all doubts and
fears, but now I feel so safe and settled," she laughed happily.
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