happens meanwhile; I mean if things don't come right. And I do
hope, Arthur, you will not set your mind too closely on what
may only prove false hopes. This is all intensely painful to me;
of course, to us both.'

Again Lawford, even though he did not turn to confront it, became
conscious of the black veil turned towards him tentatively,
speculatively, impenetrably.

'Yes,' he said, 'I'll write to Wedderburn; he's had his ups and
downs too.'

'I always rather fancied so,' said Sheila reflectively, 'he looks
rather a--a restless man. Oh, and then again,' she broke off
quickly, 'there's the question of money. I suppose--it is only a
conjecture--I suppose it would be better to do nothing in that
direction just for the present. Ada has now gone to the Bank.
Fifty pounds, Arthur; it is out of my own private account--do you
think that will be enough, just, of course, for your PRESENT
needs?'

'As a bribe, hush-money, or a thank-offering, Sheila?' murmured
her husband wearily.

'I don't follow you,' replied the discreet voice from beneath the
veil.

He did actually turn this time and glance steadily over his
shoulder. 'How long are you going for? and where?'