Douglas swung the machine across the broad avenue and through the short street behind the Treasury Department into the drive which circles around the White House grounds. "It's some years since I've been out in this direction, Miss Thornton, so, if I go astray, please put me back on the straight and narrow path." "Straight out Pennsylvania Avenue and through Georgetown," directed Eleanor, as the big car swung back again into that avenue. "The narrow path only comes after you reach the Conduit." "Then it should be spelled 'Conduct.' You have been going out a great deal this winter, have you not?" "Yes; Washington has been extremely gay, and I have enjoyed it so much." Douglas smiled down at her. "And I bet a thousand to one that Washington enjoyed you. I asked about your going out, because I am wondering if, among all the men you've met this winter, you have come across a middle-aged man with black hair and beard and very blue eyes?" Not receiving a reply, Douglas turned and scanned his companion. She sat silent, gazing straight before her. The car sped on for several squares before she roused herself. "That is a very vague description, Mr. Hunter. Do you remember the man's name?" Douglas shook his head. "I have never heard it. I only asked because I was under the impression that I saw him with you at the Navy Department on Thursday morning." "_With me--at the Navy Department_," gasped Eleanor, sitting bolt upright. She was white to the lips. "Yes, I thought I saw him talking to you in an elevator. I just caught a glimpse of you as the cage descended past the floor on which I was." "You are entirely mistaken, Mr. Hunter." Eleanor's eyes did not waver before his questioning look. "I was alone, though I do recollect there was another passenger in the elevator who got out on the first floor, while I continued on down to the basement." "Then I was mistaken." Douglas slowed the car down to the limit prescribed by law as he crossed the M Street bridge over Rock Creek, then increased the speed as they progressed through Georgetown. "You have aroused my curiosity." Eleanor settled herself more comfortably in the low seat. "Why do you take an interest in a man with blue eyes and black hair?" "Because I thought he was with you." "Upon my word!" Eleanor's laugh held a shade of annoyance. "That's a very silly reason." "I don't think it is," replied Douglas, steadily. "I _am interested_ in everything that concerns you." Eleanor surveyed him keenly. She studied the fine profile, the broad shoulders, and the powerful hands holding the steering wheel. The quiet figure seemed instinct with the vital personality of the man, a living part of the pulsing machine which he was guiding through the narrow, congested street with such skill. They crossed Thirty-seventh Street, and in a few minutes the car leaped ahead up the hill leading to the Conduit.