But the major seemed to have no eyes for any other lady in the room.
In spite of the innate repulsion to which we have referred, Mrs.
Emerson was flattered by the polished major's devotion of himself almost wholly to her during the evening, and she could do no less in return than make herself as agreeable as possible.
At eleven o'clock she had notice that her carriage was at the door.
The major was by, and heard the communication.

So, when she came down from the dressing-room, he was waiting for her in the hall, ready cloaked and gloved.
"No, Major Willard, I thank you," she said, on his making a movement to accompany her.

She spoke very positively.
"I cannot see you go home unattended." And the major bowed with graceful politeness.
"Oh no," said Mrs.Talbot.

"You must not leave my house alone.
Major, I shall expect you to attend my young friend." It was in vain that Mrs.Emerson objected and remonstrated, the gallant major would listen to nothing; and so, perforce, she had to yield.

After handing her into the carriage, he spoke a word or two in an undertone to the driver, and then entering, took his place by her side.
Mrs.Emerson felt strangely uncomfortable and embarrassed, and shrunk as far from her companion as the narrow space they occupied would permit; while he, it seemed to her, approached as she receded.
There was a different tone in his voice when he spoke as the carriage moved away from any she had noticed heretofore.