"I did not need one. I only wanted to be quiet."
"Where are the matches?"
"On the mantlepiece."
Mrs. Palma lighted the gas, then came to the bed.
"Regina, are you ill, that you obstinately absent yourself when you know there is company to dinner?"
"I feel very badly indeed, and I hoped you would excuse me."
"Have you fever? You seemed very well when I parted from you at Mrs.
St. Clare's door."
"No fever, I think; but I felt unable to go downstairs. I shall be better to-morrow."
"Erle desired me to say that he wishes to see you this evening, and you must come down to the library about nine o'clock. He has gone to his office, and you know he will be displeased if you fail to obey him."
"Please, Mrs. Palma, tell him I am not able. Ask him to excuse me this evening. Intercede for me, will you not?"