Not only were his eyes fixed on the door but
his whole body was concentrated on it.
Introduced in his turn, Mr. Wilkins was most hospitable and
called Frederick "sir."
"Well, sir," said Mr. Wilkins heartily, "here we are, here we
are"--and having gripped his hand with an understanding that only
wasn't mutual because Arbuthnot did not yet know what he was in for in
the way of trouble, he looked at him as a man should, squarely in the
eyes, and allowed his look to convey as plainly as a look can that in
him would be found staunchness, integrity, reliability--in fact a
friend in need. Mrs. Arbuthnot was very much flushed, Mr. Wilkins
noticed. He had not seen her flushed like that before. "Well, I'm
their man," he thought.
Lotty's greeting was effusive. It was done with both hands.
"Didn't I tell you?" she laughed to Rose over her shoulder while
Frederick was shaking her hands in both his.
"What did you tell her?" asked Frederick, in order to say
something. The way they were all welcoming him was confusing. They
had evidently all expected him, not only Rose.
The sandy but agreeable young woman didn't answer his question,
but looked extraordinarily pleased to see him. Why should she be
extraordinarily pleased to see him?
"What a delightful place this is," said Frederick, confused, and
making the first remark that occurred to him.
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