She thrilled all over, and something like a sob came from behind the hands that were again clasped over her face.
He waited, unable to say another word. After a little time she put out one hand and he took it with his own.
“Thank you, Frank,” she said, with as much calmness as she could command. “It was foolish of me, and I am ashamed; but you were kind, and I’ll not forget. You’ll never see me this way again—never! I promise you that.”
He was silent.
“Go to bed and dream of Elsie,” she softly said. “Some day you and Elsie will be so happy together! I will pray for her, Frank—and for you! Good-night!”
“Good-night.”
He rose and started from the room. At the door he paused and looked back. She was lying as he had left her, with her hands over her face. He went out and closed the door.
Then, without making a sound, she wept herself to sleep.