He seemed to wait for an answer, and when it did not come, he went on: 

“You ought to go in for an Olympic race.  You’re all for them in England.  I’m out of training, but I can stand this as long as you can, I bet.  The only thing is, I wanted to take you for a run in my auto, it’s such a nice, crisp night.  I’ll drive you home, if you say the word.”

“The thing wished for comes when your hands are tied,” says the Turkish proverb.  Win had been yearning for a spin.  She kept silence and sped on, wondering whether she could surprise the enemy by executing a sudden right-about-face.

“Have you been in this country long?” he inquired.

No answer.

“Oh, indeed, is that so?  I thought you hadn’t!  Are you living in New York at present?  Don’t be afraid to tell me.  Even if you are, that won’t drive me out of the little old burg.  See here, you’re mighty restless.  And you do hate to part with much of your conversation at one time, don’t you?  You’re a peach, all right, but a spiced peach preserved in vinegar.”

Winifred wheeled and began walking east even faster than she had been walking west.  In the distance a tall—­a very tall—­figure was approaching, like a ship under full sail.  Could it be—–­ Yes, it was!  Bless the light of the lamp that showed him!  Now indeed she dared to laugh.

“Here comes that partner of mine at last!” she exclaimed and almost ran to met the lion tamer.

“Good Lord!  Very well, I can’t hope to compete against cigar signs,” replied Mr. Logan.  “I was unprepared for Goliath.  Little David will fade away till he gets his sling.  You make me forget my name and telephone number, but this is where I get off at.  Please remember me next time.”

“I will, when next time comes!” Win was tempted to toss after him impudently as, lifting his cap, the motorist took a hasty short cut to the motor.  Win was actually laughing when Earl Usher joined her.  She felt safe, and not even tired.  The little adventure had had its uses, after all!  It had been, she thought, just as beneficial and not nearly so expensive as a tonic or a Turkish bath.

“Was that mutt a gentleman friend of yours, kid, or was he some fresh guy?  ’Cause, if he was playing the fool, I’ll break into the game and go for his blood,” remarked the rescuer.

“It was a Mr. Logan,” replied Win hurriedly, making up her mind that she must avoid any chance of trouble.  “But—­but I don’t like him much,” she added.  “I was very glad when I saw you.  And I’m not going to scold you for following me, because I know you meant well—­and, as it happened, it’s ending well.  For a reward, I forgive you everything.  And I’ve just thought of a new name for you, Mr. Usher.”

“Hope it’s some better than Sadie Kirk’s.”

“What—­Teddy Bear?  Yes, it’s better than that.  Did you ever read ’Quo Vadis?’”

“Not on your life.  Sounds like a patent medicine.”