His horses would have a good chance to rest before they were needed again, and this was probably one reason why the artist had him on hand at such an early hour. When young Lochinvar carried off his bride he managed to have a good steed, knowing that everything depended on the swiftness of his flight, as pursuit would be sudden and furious. So Paul Prescott, with an eye to possible emergencies, had chosen a vehicle that was drawn by a good team of animals. He showed his wisdom here. In case of pursuit it might be his salvation. When the detective sauntered past the house upon which his interest was centered he saw that it was lighted up. Company was expected. Lillian had invited a few particular friends in to see them, on account of its being Joe’s birthday. As yet they had not begun to arrive, but would soon appear upon the scene. Darrell heard a vehicle coming, and stopped in a dark spot near by. “The first of the guests,” he muttered. As the carriage stopped in front of the house he gave a start. “Jupiter! guests with trunks—that’s odd.” There was a trunk up beside the driver, who at once leaped to the ground. As he opened the door a vision of jaunty wraps and bonnets sprang out and flew up the steps to ring the bell, while Darrell held his breath as he guessed the truth. The door opened. “Marian!” A flutter of feminine apparel, a little shriek of girlish delight, and the sisters were locked in each others’ arms, to the wonderment of the man who watched below. Then the jehu carried in the trunk, the door closed, the carriage rumbled away and the street resumed its wonted appearance. Eric was puzzled. He had not counted on this. Had any of the others? What effect would it have on the anticipated elopement, he wondered. Here was the lover with his vehicle on hand, and such a nature as Paul Prescott’s would not brook interference. The affair became more complicated. Darrell would have given something to have had the next two hours over. As it was he had to possess his soul in patience and wait. Things that he did not dream of were fated to turn up in that time, and he was bound to have his hands full. Guests soon began to arrive. Several came in carriages, while others were not far enough away to bother with vehicles. It was no fashionable gathering, but one of warm friends, of whom Joe Leslie had many. His business and social life was such that he drew people to him, making many friends and few enemies, which is after all the only true way to go through this world. CHAPTER XX FOR PLUNDER At about a quarter to nine Darrell once more sauntered past the house. He could see into the parlor, as the inside shutters were turned, and with a number of others he was attracted by the bright scene. Although perhaps he would not confess it, the bachelor detective was eagerly hoping for even a fleeting glimpse of Marian. He got it too.