the new book requires a parting, we will face it bravely. At the present
moment we both need luncheon, and I must get out of my habit. Ring, and
tell them we shall not be ready for a quarter of an hour, there's a dear
boy! And think of something really funny to tell me at lunch.
Afterwards we will discuss plans."

She had reached the door when Ronald suddenly called after her: "Helen!
Hadn't you something to tell me, too?"

She turned in the doorway. Her face was gay with smiles.

"Oh, mine must wait," she said. "Your new plot, and the wonderful
journey it involves, require our undivided attention."

The sun shone very brightly just then. It touched the halo of Helen's
soft hair, turning it to gold. _In hoc vince_ gleamed upon the pane.

For a moment she stood in the doorway, giving him a chance to insist
upon hearing that which she had to tell. But Ronald, easily satisfied,
turned and rang the bell.

"All right, sweet," he said. "How lovely you look in the sunshine! If it
was business, or anything worrying, I would certainly rather not hear it
now. You have bucked me up splendidly, Helen. Seven months seem nothing;
and my whole mind is bounding forward into my story. I really must give
you an outline of the plot." He followed her into the hall. "Helen! Do
come back for a minute."

But Helen was half way up the stairs. He heard her laugh as she reached
the landing.