"But Hugh," she began, oh so disappointed, and then stopped. She had told every one—well, Mrs. Boyd—that she was bringing Hugh this time....
He understood. "Why, it's the lecture or debate," he said. "I am sorry." There clearly was no question which should go. Then, much more gently, remembering her keenness: "Never mind, little girl: we'll find another nice debate. Let's see the list and we will pick one now."
Treats, of course, are seldom a success the second time. Helena, now, did not dash for the list. In fact Hubert, looking up, saw that great tears were rolling down her cheeks.
She could have killed herself for shame. It only proved how difficult it was to be grown up, if you began too late!
And Hubert was not even touched by it. The silly action had no sanction in success.
He got up angrily, without a word, but making it clear that he had thought her selfish. He sat on the armchair and took up the Spectator. This announced that breakfast was now over.
Helena felt that his rebuke was thoroughly deserved. What must he think of her, when they took place each week and he had offered to come to another? Of course he didn't know about that rude pig, Mrs. Boyd!
"Hugh dear," she said, also getting up, "I am so sorry; I feel such a beast. It's only I was disappointed. Of course my meeting's simply nothing. I ought to have been glad about the Kit Kats, and I am."
Some men, after that, would possibly have changed their minds and taken her to her dear meeting; but to Hubert nothing came before success.
"That's a dear unselfish little wife," he answered soothingly and gave her a forgiving kiss. The episode was closed.