"Don't try! I hate thanks! All I want is to hear of your first brief! How do you think Ethel is looking?"
"Not the same girl that went away. How much I owe to you!"
"Not the same? But she is the girl you wanted," said Fulvia, lightly.
Nigel broke into his old laugh. He could not help it; and even he was beginning to think despite the past, that Fulvia did not greatly care. She had been so cheery and full of fun all the hours since reaching home.
A smile came in response; then Fulvia went to her own room, to stand long at the window, star-gazing. Drizzle and fog had vanished, leaving a clear sky; and she had much to think about.
"Better so!" she said aloud. "How happy they are! After all, one's own happiness is not the chief thing! I shall be helped—and by-and-by it will grow easier. I will be brave; I will be glad for them!"
THE END