"Go into the house, Vivien."
"For my sake, father!"
"Go into the house, I say. Let me alone."
"Not till you promise me you won't do that."
He looked down into her pleading face. His own softened a little. "Very well, my girl, I promise you I won't do that."
Neither Isobel nor Harry had moved; they made no sign now. Vivien slowly loosed her grasp of her father's arm and turned back towards the door. Suddenly Harry spoke in a hoarse whisper.
"I'm sorry, Vivien, awfully sorry."
Then she looked at him for a moment; a smile of sad wistfulness came on her lips.
"Yes, I'm sure you're awfully sorry, Harry."
She passed into the house, leaving the door open behind her. Harry heard her slow steps crossing the hall.