now, poor old boy. That's why I lead him such a dog's life. A man should
never be cheap to his wife. Now look at your husband! Indifference
personified! And you have never given him an hour's anxiety in his
life."

Mrs. Ralston's pale blue eyes suddenly shone. She looked almost young
again. "We understand each other," she said simply.

A mocking smile played about Mrs. Ermsted's lips, but she said nothing
for the moment. In her own fashion she was fond of the surgeon's wife,
and she would not openly deride her, dear good soul.

"When you've quite finished that," she remarked presently, "there's a
tussore frock of my own I want to consult you about. There's one thing
about Stella; she won't be wanting many clothes, so I shall be able to
retain your undivided attention in that respect. I really don't know
what Tessa and I would do without you. The tiresome little thing is
always tearing her clothes to pieces."

Mrs. Ralston smiled, a soft mother-smile. "You're a lucky, lucky girl,"
she said, "though you don't realize it, and probably never will. When
are you going to bring the little monkey to see me again?"

"She will probably come herself when the mood takes her," carelessly
Mrs. Ermsted made reply. "I assure you, you stand very high on her
visiting list. But I hardly ever take her anywhere. She is always so
naughty with me." She chose another cigarette with the words. "She is
sure to be a pretty frequent visitor while Tommy Denvers is here. She
worships him."