The hall porter thought that she had gone down into the country, and if so it was doubtful when she would be back.

Tavernake was now seriously disconcerted.
"I want particularly to wire to her," he insisted.

"Please find out from her maid how I shall direct a telegram." The hall porter, who was a most superior person, regarded him blandly.
"We do not give addresses, sir," he explained, "unless at the expressed wish of our clients.

If you leave a telegram here, I will send it up to Mrs.Gardner's rooms to be forwarded." Tavernake scribbled one out, begging for news of her return, added his address and left the place.

Then he wandered aimlessly about the streets.