"Why? I only say what I feel. I never knew any man who gave me that impression in the same way."
"Do you know why I cannot bear you to say it? It is because he may choose to influence you."
"Well!" said Elsie with an odd smile. "That might not be an unpleasant sensation. Don't be angry," she added hurriedly, seeing the look of pain that came into his face. "I didn't mean to vex you. Nothing in the world is more unlikely to happen."
"As that he should influence you, or that he should choose to do so?"
"Both, or either—as you please. Good-night, Mr. Hallett. We have had a thirty miles' journey to-day, and Ina has gone to bed."
They went in. He gave her a candle, and bade her good-night.
"Do you know where your room is?" he asked.
"Yes, it is a good way along the passage—horribly far from Ina's. I shall lock my door."
"Don't be frightened if you hear noises. They are not likely to shut up the hotel very early. I think it was a mistake your coming here just at this time."
"I don't think so at all. I wouldn't miss it for the world. But I should like to know who has the room next to mine. Where are you?"
"On the ground floor. I am very sorry. I will find out who is next you, if you like." He went out. After a minute or two he came back.
"Mr. Dominic Trant has the room next yours."
"I don't think I like Mr. Dominic Trant," said Elsie. "He has such odd eyes. I think he believes he can mesmerize people. All the time we were standing in the hall downstairs, he was looking at me. Tell me—is he going to Tunimba?"
"I suppose so: Edith says it will be the greatest mistake to get up a coolness on account of the election. She has asked Mr. Blake to come too."
"I suppose she is right."
