And if this did not satisfy him, if he could not live like that—well, then, there was what Ruth had said....
When he had heard the truth, the choice should lie with him! He might choose then between the sister and the author-wife. But they must have the truth. She would not sacrifice poor Ruth to him again. He had been spared enough already. The truth would make him happier. What could a man so selfish know of happiness?
Poor Ruth, contented with her mission, laying on her bed a dress that would astonish Hubert by contrast with the prim grey horrors of old time, little guessed how too thoroughly she had let in the light to Helena's young eyes!
Helena released the key and moved with firm resolve into the hall. She dared not stop to think. She strode across the narrow carpet and boldly turned the handle of his sacred room at this forbidden hour. She did not even knock.
There is much courage in a symbol.
CHAPTER XXIX
HELENA BRETT'S CAREER
Helena stood at the door, as on the day when she had lost her watch; and now again each detail stamped itself instantly upon her brain.
But this time Hubert was not working.