"Strange she is and secret, Strange her eyes; her cheeks are
cold as cold sea-shells."

Yet I would risk it, for I knew there was no hope if I let her go
now, and if I saw her again, some glimmer might fall upon my
dark.

Next day this reached me:- Dear Mr. Clifden,-

I am going to some Indian friends for a time. On the 15th of June
I shall he at Srinagar in Kashmir. A friend has allowed me to
take her little houseboat, the "Kedarnath." If you like this plan
we will share the cost for two months. I warn you it is not
luxurious, but I think you will like it. I shall do this whether
you come or no, for I want a quiet time before I take up my
nursing in Lahore. In thinking of all this will you remember that
I am not a girl but a woman. I shall he twenty-nine my next
birthday. Sincerely yours, VANNA LORING.

P.S. But I still think you would be wiser not to come. I hope to
hear you will not.

I replied only this :- Dear Miss Loring,- I think I understand
the position fully. I will be there. I thank you with all my
heart. Gratefully yours, STEPHEN CLIFDEN.



IV