The baggage man
and Orde carried the trunks downstairs. No one appeared. Carroll
and Orde walked together to the hotel. Next morning an interview
with Gerald confirmed them in their resolution of immediate
departure.
"She is set in her opposition now, and at present she believes
firmly that her influence will separate you. Such a state of mind
cannot be changed in an hour."
"And you?" asked Carroll.
"Oh, I," he shrugged, "will go on as usual. I have my interests."
"I wish you would come out in our part of the country," ventured
Orde.
Gerald smiled his fine smile.
"Good-bye," said he. "Going to a train is useless, and a bore to
everybody."
Carroll threw herself on his neck in an access of passionate
weeping.
"You WILL write and tell me of everything, won't you?" she begged.
"Of course. There now, good-bye."
Orde followed him into the hall.
"It would be quite useless to attempt another interview?" he
inquired.
Gerald made a little mouth.
"I am in the same predicament as yourselves," said he, "and have
since nine this morning taken up my quarters at the club. Please do
not tell Carroll; it would only pain her."
At the station, just before they passed in to the train, the general
appeared.
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