"Then may I rent one of your own cars, with a man to drive it?"
"Again, I am very sorry, Mademoiselle, but all the hotel cars are
engaged."
The pretty Russian stamped her foot impatiently.
"Oh, no matter, then," she cried. "I will go to the garage and take
out my own car. I know how to manage it."
"I regret very much to have to report, Mademoiselle," replied the clerk,
speaking as respectfully as ever, "that one of the hind wheels has been
removed from your car."
Mlle. Nadiboff stared at the clerk in amazement.
"Who has dared do such a thing?" she demanded, angrily.
"I am sorry, but I do not know," answered the clerk.
"Then I suppose it would be impossible, even, for me to hire one of your
livery rigs?" she continued icily.
"You have guessed right, Mademoiselle."
"Oh, but this is insupportable!" cried the pretty Russian, turning away.
As she did so, she caught sight of Jack Benson for the first time.
"Oh, I would like just a word with you, my Captain," she called softly,
moving after the boy, who had started toward the door.
She overtook Jack, resting a gloved hand on his sleeve.
"Do not stop," she urged, softly. "I will keep on with you, out onto
the veranda."
In silence Jack stepped outside with her.
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