Nevertheless, Iris could scarcely touch her wine, and she pushed aside
the tempting macaroon which Mr. Delaney had slipped on to her plate.
She found it impossible to eat.

Apollo, after a moment's hesitation, attacked his wine and swallowed
his biscuit manfully; but even he had not his usual appetite.

After a short pause, Iris gave a gentle sigh and put both her arms
round her father's neck.

"I am tired, father; I should like to go to bed."

"And I want to go too," said Apollo.

"Those are the first sensible remarks I have heard from either of the
children," said Mrs. Dolman. "I should think they are dead tired for
want of sleep, poor little mites. Good-night, both of you. When you
come to live with me--ah! I see you are astonished; but we will talk
of that pleasant little scheme to-morrow. Good-night to you both."

"Good-night, Aunt Jane," said Iris.

"Good-night, Aunt Jane," said Apollo.

"Good-night to you both, my pets," said Mr. Delaney.

Iris gave her father a silent hug, Apollo kissed him on the
forehead--a moment later the little pair left the room. As soon as
ever they had done so, Mrs. Dolman turned to her brother.