"Henry," she said earnestly, "do you know I am so much more anxious
to hear your news."

"Mine will keep," he replied. "What about Richard?"

She shook her head.

"I spent the whole of my time making enquiries," she sighed, "and
every one was fruitless. I failed to get the least satisfaction
from any one at the War Office. They know nothing, have heard
nothing."

"I'm ever so sorry to hear it," Sir Henry declared sympathetically.
"You mustn't worry too much, though, dear. Where's Helen?"

"She is in the gun room with a caller."

"With a caller?" Nora exclaimed. "Is it any one from the Depot?
I must go and see."

"You needn't trouble," her stepmother replied. "Here they are,
coming in."

The door on the opposite side of the room was suddenly opened, and
Hamar Lessingham and Helen entered together. Lessingham was
entirely at his ease,--their conversation, indeed, seemed almost
engrossing. He came at once across the room on realising Sir
Henry's presence.

"This is Mr. Hamar Lessingham--my husband," Philippa said. "Mr.