"That is not so; you know it, Bessie."
"Never mind how it may be; if I am precious in your eyes it is all I ask."
So they talked each other into serenity for the time. Their married life had been so broken up that it was natural that much of the enthusiasm of lovers should remain—even in their old difficulties there had been none of the common-place quarrels which degrade love, and wear it out much more quickly than a trouble which strikes deeper ever does.
"Since I came back," Grantley said, "I have sometimes thought it might be a little feeling towards Elsie which made you so strange."
"What feeling but kindness could I have?" she asked.
"True; it would not be like you, Bessie. You love her, don't you? It was through her we knew each other—remember that!"
"I do, and very pleasantly; but I have no need to think of that to be kind and gentle with her—when have you seen me otherwise?"
"Never; I can honestly say never!"
"Has Elsie complained?"
"No, dear, and never had such a thought, I am certain."