Armitage, the false baron,
would have been identified as a daring burglar, shot while trying to
burglarize the Claiborne mansion! But I wouldn't take the Claiborne plate
for anything, I assure you!"
"I suppose you didn't think of us--all of us, and the unpleasant
consequences to my father and brother if something disagreeable happened
here!"
There was real anxiety in her tone, and he saw that he was going too far
with his light treatment of the affair. His tone changed instantly.
"Please forgive me! I would not cause embarrassment or annoyance to any
member of your family for kingdoms. I didn't know I was being followed--I
had come here to see you. That is the truth of it."
"You mustn't try to see me! You mustn't come here at all unless you come
with the knowledge of my father. And the very fact that your life is
sought so persistently--at most unusual times and in impossible places,
leaves very much to explain."
"I know that! I realize all that!"
"Then you must not come! You must leave instantly."
She walked away toward the front door; but he followed, and at the door
she turned to him again.
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