"I do not blame you," he said. "A lad, one in his formative years,
cannot be too careful about his associates. Doubtless you were justified
in taking advantage of the open door. But now that you are here may I
ask you what you purpose next to do?"
"I admit, sir, that the question is natural," replied Dick, suiting his
tone and manner to those of the old man. "I have scarcely had time yet
to form a purpose, but, since the danger of contamination of which we
spoke still exists, it occurs to me that perhaps I might stay here a
while. Is there some nook or a cover in which I might rest? I hope I
do not trespass too much upon your hospitality."
Colonel Woodville pondered. His great white eyebrows were drawn together
and, for a moment or two, he gazed down the beak of his nose.
"I confess," he said, "that the appeal to hospitality moves me. I am
stirred somewhat, too, by pleasant recollections of the lad who looked
like you. But wait, my daughter is coming. We will confer with her.
Margaret is a most capable woman."
Dick heard a light step in the passage and he wheeled quickly.
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