I certainly saw you! I shall not deny that I
intentionally followed you, nor"--John Armitage smiled, then grew grave
again--"can I make any adequate apology for doing so."
Claiborne looked at Armitage wonderingly. The man's attitude and tone
were wholly serious and compelled respect. Claiborne nodded and threw
away his cigar that he might give his whole attention to what Armitage
might have to say.
"A man does not like to have his sister forming the acquaintances of
persons who are not properly vouched for. Except for Singleton you know
nothing of me; and Singleton knows very little of me, indeed."
Claiborne nodded. He felt the color creeping into his cheeks consciously
as Armitage touched upon this matter.
"I speak to you as I do because it is your right to know who and what I
am, for I am not on the _King Edward_ by accident but by intention, and I
am going to Washington because your sister lives there."
Claiborne smiled in spite of himself.
"But, my dear sir, this is most extraordinary! I don't know that I care
to hear any more; by listening I seem to be encouraging you to follow
us--it's altogether too unusual.
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