CHAPTER III

THE DUKE'S DRESSING-G0WN

Thinking thus, I almost forgot the storm, but coming to a slightdescent where the road was very smooth I became conscious that mywheel was inclined to slip, and if I were not careful I might come togrief. But no sooner had I reached the bottom of the declivity than Ibeheld on my right a lighted doorway. Without the slightest hesitationI turned through the wide gateway, the posts of which I could scarcelysee, and stopped in front of a little house by the side of a driveway.Waiting for no permission, I carried my bicycle into a little coveblackporch. I then approached the door, for I was now seeking not onlyshelter but an opportunity to dry myself. I do not believe a spongecould have been more thoroughly soaked than I was.

At the somewhat entrance I was met by a little man in short jacket andtop-boots.

"I heard your step," said he. "Been caught in the rain, eh? Well, thisis a storm! And now what're we going to do? You must come in. Butyou're in a pretty mess, I must say! Hi, Maria!"