'I want you to alter your mind and go with us to-night,' he said.
'No, really! It isn't worth the expense, Gilbert. I don't care so much for music.'
'The expense is only a shilling. And Thyrza won't be quite happy without you. I want her to enjoy herself without any reserve. You'll come?'
'Well. But—'
'All right. Be ready both of you by half-past six.'
They nodded a good-bye to each other.
Thyrza was making believe to eat her dinner. Mrs. Grail saw what a pretence it was.
'Was there ever such an excitable child!' she said, affectionately. 'Now do eat something more, dear! I shall tell Gilbert he must never let you know beforehand when he's going to take you anywhere.'
But Thyrza had no appetite. She helped the old lady to clear the table, then ran upstairs.
It was an unspeakable relief to be alone. She had never known such a painful feeling of guilt as whilst she sat with Gilbert and Lydia regarding her. Yet why? Her secret, she tried to assure herself, was quite innocent, trivial indeed. But why had she been unable to come straight home? What had held her away, as forcibly as if a hand had lain upon her?