Mrs. Bailey suddenly realised, or thought she realised, what that look
meant. She took her purse out of her pocket and held out a two-franc
piece.
"Certainly," she answered coldly, "I will explain to Madame Wachner that
I insisted on coming in to rest."
The woman's manner altered; it became at once familiar and servile. After
profusely thanking Sylvia for her "tip," she laid the cotton parasol on
the dining-table, put her arms akimbo, and suddenly asked, "Has Madame
heard any news of her friend? I mean of the Polish lady?"
"No," Sylvia looked up surprised. "I'm sorry to say that there is still
no news of her, but, of course, there will be soon."
She was astonished that the Wachners should have mentioned the matter to
this disagreeable, inquisitive person.
"The lady stopped here on her way to the station. She seemed in very high
spirits."
"Oh, no, you are quite mistaken," said Sylvia quickly. "Madame Wolsky did
not come here at all the day she left Lacville. She was expected, both to
tea and to supper, but she did not arrive--"
"Indeed, yes, Madame! I had to come back that afternoon, for I had
forgotten to bring in some sugar.
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