Page 48 (1/2)

She lifted her head sharply, "Well, yes;--what of it?"

"Oh, nothing; nothing at all In the first place, the health of our

friend, Frederick, is excellent But if this felloere not younger;

and if apoplexy or judgment should--well; why, perhaps--"

"Perhaps what?"

"Of course, Helena, reat desire is for your happiness; but in my

position I--I am not as free as I once was to follow my own

inclinations And if--"

"Oh, my God!" she said violently

She fled out of the roo feet As he followed her up the

stairs he heard her door slam viciously and the bolt slip He ca while with his back

to the fire, staring at the lamp or the darkness of the uncurtained

By and by he shook his head and set his jaw in sullen