He had evidently disturbed an interesting _tete-a-tete_.

He decided to say nothing, but mentally he resolved to spoil Mr.Bagley's game and save Kate from her own folly.

On hearing his voice Kate turned and gave a little cry of genuine surprise.
"Why, is it you, Jeff?
I thought you were in Europe." "I returned yesterday," he replied somewhat curtly.

He crossed over to his father's desk where he sat down to scribble a few words, while Mr.Bagley, who had followed him in scowling, was making frantic dumb signs to Kate.
"I fear I intrude here," said Jefferson pointedly.
"Oh, dear no, not at all," replied Kate in some confusion.

"I was waiting for my father.