“Yes, uncle.”

“How are you now, my child?”

“Not very well, uncle.”

“Very sorry, my dear. Can your aunt get you anything?”

“No; I thank you.”

“Wish you a good night, then. I am very sorry about that upset this afternoon.—Come, my dear.”

“Good-night, Kate, my love,” said Mrs Wilton, with her ear against the panel; “I do hope you will be able to sleep.”

“Good-night, aunt,” said the girl quietly; and they went back to their own door.

“Won’t you come and say ‘good-night’ to poor Claud, dear?” whispered Mrs Wilton.

“No, ‘poor Claud’ has to come to me first.—Go in.”