failed to fill in the silence that seemed like some rather sleek
nocturnal creature quietly waiting to be fed.

Sheila swept softly towards the door. 'Well, Arthur, I think that
is all. The servants will have gone by this evening. I have
ordered a carriage for half-past twelve. Perhaps you would first
write down anything that occurs to you to be necessary? Perhaps,
too, it would be better if Dr Simon were told that we shall not
need him any more, that you are thinking of a complete change of
scene, a voyage. He is obviously useless. Besides, Mr Bethany, I
think, is going to discuss a specialist with you. I have written
him a little note, just briefly explaining. Shall I write to Dr
Simon too?'

'You remember everything,' said Lawford, and it seemed to him it
was a remark he had heard ages and ages ago. 'It's only this
money, Sheila; will you please take that away?'

'Take it away?'

'I think, Sheila, if I do take a voyage I should almost prefer to
work my passage. As for a mere "change of scene," that's quite
uncostly.'

'It is only your face, Arthur,' said Sheila solemnly, 'that
suggest these wicked stabs. Some day you will perhaps repent of
every one.'

'It is possible, Sheila; we none of us stand still, you know. One
rips open a lid sometimes and the wax face rots before one's