But hearts do not break at the command of those who own them, and when she had moaned away the worst of her pain, she fell asleep. When she awoke it was already growing dark, and the knocking at her door, which roused her, was like a call from the peace of dreams to the desolation of reality. When she had turned on the light she received from the hands of the waiting servant that which had become a most rare visitant in the blankness of her life—a note.
The address was in a sprawling hand, which she recognized. What was written within was more sprawling still:
"For Heaven's sake, come to me at once. The expected has happened, and I don't know what to do. The motor will wait and bring you.
CLARA WAPPINGER."
XIX
As Diane entered, Mrs. Wappinger, dishevelled and distraught, was standing in the hail, a slip of yellow paper in her hand.
"Oh, my dear, I'm so glad you've come! I'm just about crazy! Read this!"
Diane took the paper and read:
"D. and I are to be married to-night. Be ready to receive us to-morrow. CARLI."