sandwiches, and especially the tiny omelette. You have scarcely
touched anything to-day, Arthur. I am a poor one to preach, I am
afraid; but you know what that will mean--a worse breakdown
still. You really must try to think of--of us all.'

'Are you going to church?' he asked in a low voice.

'Not, of course, if you would prefer not. But Dr Simon advised me
most particularly to go out at least once a day. We must
remember, this is not the beginning of your illness.
Long-continued anxiety, I suppose, does tell on one in time.
Anyhow, he said that I looked worried and run-down. I AM worried.
Let us both try for each other's sakes, or even if only for
Alice's, to--to do all we can. I must not harass you; but is
there any--do you see the slightest change of any kind?'

'You always look pretty, Sheila; to-night you look prettier: THAT
is the only change, I think.'

Mrs Lawford's attitude intensified in its stillness. 'Now,
speaking quite frankly, what is it in you suggests these remarks
at such a time? That's what baffles me. It seems so childish, so
needlessly blind.'

'I am very sorry, Sheila, to be so childish. But I'm not, say
what you like, blind. You ARE pretty: I'd repeat it if I was
burning at the stake.'

Sheila lowered her eyes softly on to the rich-toned picture in
the glass. 'Supposing,' she said, watching her lips move,