Edgar Jepson

“ Woodfell, in an opera hat and patent-leather boots was seeking the priestess of Ashtaroth at the Empire.
During the last week of April there came to London from the North an important client, a shipbuilder. It fell to me to entertain him during his stay. It was annoying, for it robbed me of my evenings with Pamela. It was tiresome, for he proved the most tedious person in the world. One night after an excellent dinner—I must admit that the dinners he gave me were excellent—we went to the Empire. For a while he watched the entertainment in a heavy beatitude. ”

“ Woodfell shook hands with her, raised his hat, and left the music-hall. She came straight to me. I had not thought that she had seen me.
"How are you?" she said. "I never expected to see you here."
"Nor I you," I said.
"Oh, that's all right," she said easily. "I only come here because it's nice and bright and amusing. That little beast Dymchurch used to bring me here often; and I've got into the way of it. I'm always sure of finding some one here to talk to. There's no harm in that. Besides, I've made some jolly friends here, though they all bother me to leave off coming." ”

“ Easter fell early and cold. There was a celebration of some rites at No. 19, for Pamela was sent to bed early and locked in her room. But it took place in Woodfell's study, not in the garden. From the low noise of the chanting which came through the wall I believe that all the seven celebrants were present.
A few evenings later I was indeed surprised. At about nine o'clock I was in my study, working before the window, when the door of No. 19 opened and Woodfell came out; but how changed a Woodfell! He was wearing evening dress; his overcoat was of the latest fashion; his gloves were white kid ”

“ I've had enough of romance, thank you," she said scornfully.
"Only of the Family Herald kind," I said. "You've just assured me that you are a seeker after real romance, the unexpected, wonderful adventure." ”