In a soft and distinct voice Nancy answered: "I don't know what Father will do without them, dear!"
He looked up quickly, and again Theresa was conscious of the old shadow. "I shall miss my friends," he said firmly.
"Of course, dear."
"But there's me!" cried Theresa. "How can I dream——" She broke off, for the shadow hid her from her parent's sight. Edward Webb was speaking more loudly than his wont.
"I shall go and see them when I can."
"Take me." Theresa's voice was distant and ignored. She lost her sense of solidity. Could she really be here, since they neither saw nor heard her? She touched the sideboard: it was hard and cold.
"Expensive," Nancy said.
"I hope I shall not be self-indulgent."
"There would be excuse."
"Nancy, Nancy, at a time like this!" He dropped his appeal. "If I cannot go to them, perhaps they would be willing to come to me."