In plain sight
through the windows he beheld the garage and behind it the tops of
trees. To summon Rumson, to keep in touch with Nolan, he need only
step to one of these windows and beckon. The strategic position of
the room appealed, and with a bow of the head he passed in front of
his hostess and entered it. He continued to take note of his
surroundings.
He now saw that from the office in which he stood doors led to
rooms adjoining. These doors were shut, and he determined swiftly
that before the interview began he first must know what lay behind
them. Mrs. Earle had followed and, as she entered, closed the door.
"No!" said Wharton.
It was the first time he had spoken. For an instant the woman
hesitated, regarding him thoughtfully, and then without resentment
pulled the door open. She came toward him swiftly, and he was
conscious of the rustle of silk and the stirring of perfumes. At
the open door she cast a frown of disapproval and then, with her
face close to his, spoke hurriedly in a whisper.
"A man brought a girl here to lunch," she said; "they've been here
before. The girl claims the man told her he was going to marry her.
Last night she found out he has a wife already, and she came here
to-day meaning to make trouble. She brought a gun. They were in the
room at the far end of the hall. George, the water, heard the two
shots and ran down here to get me.
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