"To see me?" echoed Virginia in a surprised tone.
"Yes."
"Very well, I'll be there in just a minute."
Approaching her big brother-in-law Fanny gently laid her hand on his arm. There was nothing to be said. Each understood the other.
"Be very kind to her," she said pleadingly.
"Don't worry," he smiled.
"She's had a hard time."
"So have I," he replied with some emotion.
Fanny turned away and without another word left the room. For a few moments that seemed like years, Stafford remained alone, his eyes fixed on the door through which would presently pass the one woman in the whole world. It seemed like an age before she appeared. Would she never come? Then, all at once, the door opened and Virginia appeared on the threshold. On seeing who the visitor was, she stood like one spellbound. The blood went from her cheeks, leaving her deathly pale. She made a step forward, but stumbled and nearly fell. He darted forward and caught her in his strong arms.
"Darling!" he whispered.