"I must go to Chicago some time this month, and as I shall not be wanted here tomorrow I might as well run out there at once, and join you next week at Lynbrook."
Bessy had grown pale. "But I don't understand——"
Their eyes met. "Can't you understand that I am human enough to prefer, under the circumstances, not being present at tomorrow's meeting?" he said with a dry laugh.
She sank back with a moan of discouragement, turning her face away as he began to move toward his room.
"Shall I put the light out?" he asked, pausing with his hand on the electric button.
"Yes, please."
He pushed in the button and walked on, guided through the obscurity by the line of light under his door. As he reached the threshold he heard a little choking cry.
"John—oh, John!"
He paused.
"I can't bear it!" The sobs increased.