Broad sunlight filled her room when she was awakened by a knocking at her door. She sprang from the bed and went to it. She was not to be come in upon by any unwelcome visitor. But it was Mrs. Herrick; and Flora, with a murmur of relief, since this was the one person she did want to see, drew her inside.
"Why, my child, you haven't slept, at least not properly." Mrs. Herrick herself looked anxious and weary. "I've come to tell you that Mrs. Britton is here. She came an hour ago."
"Where is she?"
"In the breakfast-room with Mr. Cressy."
"Oh," Flora cried, "you know I didn't expect them. I didn't want them. It wasn't for them I asked you to come."
"But can't you tell me what it is you're afraid of?" the other urged. "Between us can't we prevent it? Is there nothing I can do to help you?"
"Ah, if you knew how much you have already helped me by just being here."
Her companion laughed a little. "Can't I do something more active than that?"
Flora pondered. "Where is Mr. Kerr?"
"In the garden, in the willow walk."