So he argued, as he stood with the book still open in his hands, the blue cross staring imperatively from the white paper.  And from the argument rose thoughts and suggestions that seethed in his mind long after the lights had been switched off, long after the fire had died down and he had been left wrapped in darkness in the great canopied bed.

And so it came about that he took his second false step.  Once during the press of the next morning’s work it crossed his mind to verify his convictions by a glance at the directory.  But for once the strong wish that evolves a thought conquered his caution.  His work was absorbing; the need of verification seemed very small.  He let the suggestion pass.

At seven o’clock he dressed carefully.  His mind was full of Lakely and of the possibilities the night might hold; for more than once before, the weight of the ‘St. George’s Gazette’, with Lakely at its back, had turned the political scales.  To be marked by him as a coming man was at any time a favorable portent; to be singled out by him at the present juncture was momentous.  A thrill of expectancy, almost of excitement, passed through him as he surveyed his appearance preparatory to leaving the house.

Passing down-stairs, he moved at once to the hall door; but almost as his hand touched it he halted, attracted by a movement on the landing above him.  Turning, he saw Eve.

She was standing quite still, looking down upon him as she had looked once before.  As their eyes met, she changed her position hastily.

“You are going out?” she asked.  And it struck Loder quickly that there was a suggestion, a shadow of disappointment in the tone of her voice.  Moved by the impression, he responded with unusual promptness.

“Yes,” he said.  “I’m dining out—­dining with Lakely.”

She watched him intently while he spoke; then, as the meaning of his words reached her, her whole face brightened.

“With Mr. Lakely?” she said.  “Oh, I’m glad—­very glad.  It is quite—­quite another step.”  She smiled with a warm, impulsive touch of sympathy.

Loder, looking up at her, felt his senses stir.  At sound of her words his secret craving for success quickened to stronger life.  The man whose sole incentive lies within may go forward coldly and successfully; but the man who grasps a double inspiration, who, even unconsciously, is impelled by another force, has a stronger impetus for attack, a surer, more vital hewing power.  Still watching her, he answered instinctively—­

“Yes,” he said, slowly, “a long step.”  And, with a smile of farewell, he turned, opened the door, and passed into the road.

The thrill of that one moment was still warm as he reached Cadogan Gardens and mounted the steps of No. 33—­so vitally warm that he paused for an instant before pressing the electric bell.  Then at last, dominated by anticipation, he turned and raised his hand.