“Is anything the matter?” asked Louise.
“Matter? No. It’s very dark outside, and the light makes one’s eyes ache. Seen Pradelle?”
“No, dear,” said Louise gravely. “I thought he went out with you.”
“Yes, of course, but he likes to go wandering about the town. I wanted a quiet smoke by the waterside. I’m tired. I think I shall go up to bed.”
“Do, dear. I’ll wait till papa comes.”
“Good-night.”
“Good-night, Harry dear,” she said, rising, and, putting her arms round his neck, she laid her cheek to his. “Good-night, dear. Harry darling, don’t worry about the work. Do it like a brave, true man; it will make father so happy.”
There was a sudden catching sob in Harry Vine’s throat, as, like a flash, the memory of old happy boy and girl days came back. He caught his sister to his breast, and held her tightly there as he kissed her passionately again and again.
“My darling brother!” cried Louise as she tightened her grasp about his neck. “And you will try for all our sakes?”
“Yes, yes,” he said in a hoarse whisper.