He seated himself in an armchair, and proceeded to coolly await the
coming of the mistress of the house.
Soon Nell Darrel came in. Her face was suffused with smiles, which
evidenced that she had heard good news. Elliston, however, flattered
himself that it was his coming that caused the pleased look on the
face of the detective's sister.
"A pleasant day, Mr. Elliston."
"Rather."
He rose and held out his hand. She did not accept it, much to his
chagrin.
"Aren't you glad to see me, Nell?" he queried. "I've been absent
almost a week, and I thought you would be longing for my company by
this time."
A smile of self-assurance crossed his dark face.
"I have no reason to regard you with any more consideration than on
your former visit," she said. "Have you seen my brother?"
"Yes."
"Where is he now?"
"In Iowa, I presume."
"He is well?"
"He was when I parted with him, a short time since. You haven't heard
from him?"
"Yes. He was then in a small town in the South or West, I believe."
Thus they chatted for some time.
During the past few days a desperate resolve had taken possession of
Elliston's brain. He admired the pretty Nell now more than ever, and
he was determined to make one more effort to win her regard before
going to extremes.
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