And with never a look at Lorraine, she passed in front of him and went down the path toward town. Lorraine watched her go--and Pendleton watched Lorraine. When she had passed around the bend, the former turned slowly and encountered the latter's eyes. "Pendleton," said he impulsively, "I apologize! I didn't mean it--I think I'm crazy--I must be crazy. Won't you shake hands with me?" "Of course I will, Lorraine," Pendleton replied. "And you don't need to apologize to _me_--apologize to Stephanie. She is the one you owe it to." Lorraine's face hardened. "What do you think she owes me?" he asked. "We are not computing the balance on the Amherst affair--we are dealing with the present instance, and in it you were wholly at fault. Because she slipped once, doesn't imply that she slips constantly, nor does it excuse you for assuming that fact. Good God! man, give your wife credit for regretting her mistake and wanting to live it down--it's the normal and rational way to look at it. Be a little charitable in your view--Stephanie needs it--we all need it." "Do you mean that I should not divorce her--that I should take her back?" "That question you must decide for yourself." "I ask for your opinion." Pendleton shook his head. "You must decide for yourself," he repeated, preparing to mount. "I shall decide for myself--but I want your opinion," Lorraine persisted. Pendleton let his hand rest on the pommel of his saddle and considered. What was the best for Stephanie--to return to Lorraine or to be free of him? He was not sure she knew herself; yet he wanted to help her even in a little, if his advice would be a feather-weight toward that end. "Tell me!" exclaimed Lorraine again. He made a quick resolution--it could do no harm--it would still be for her to determine: "I should by all means take her back--if she will have you," he answered. "If she will have me!" Lorraine interrogated in surprise. "You think there is any doubt about it?" "Candidly I do--very material doubt, indeed." "You say that with knowledge--you have talked with her!" Lorraine cried, instantly suspicious. "I saw Mrs. Lorraine but a few minutes at the Club-house, yesterday. Is it likely she would discuss you there?" Pendleton replied. "It was not until she was leaving, remember, that she encountered you and your--rebuff." It was an unfortunate speech. Pendleton realized it as the last word was said. It brought to Lorraine's mind the scene of yesterday, and his decision--made before them all. He had refused to recognize her then--should he reverse himself within twenty-four hours--make himself the laughing stock of every one--prove himself a mere will-o-the-wisp? He had been about to dash after Stephanie and apologize--to ask her to come back--to forgive and forget the past. But now he was not so sure--he must take time to consider--must ponder the situation gravely--must----