For the curate’s heavy step was heard upon the stairs, and directly after, as North hastened to open the door, Salis entered, carrying Mary in his arms, she looking white and anxious, and gazing quickly from her sister to North and back.
There was an interchange of glances all round, and then, as if by common consent, the subject of the past night was avoided for a time, and North turned to go.
“But you will stay breakfast?” said Mary. “You look tired and worn out.”
She coloured slightly, for the words, full of anxiety for North’s welfare, had escaped her inadvertently; and the colour deepened as, in his pleasantly frank way, he smiled in her face.
“It is very good of you,” he said. “You are always so thoughtful. If Leo will only endorse the invitation, I shall be very glad to stay.”
“I’m sure we shall be very pleased,” said Leo calmly; and he crossed to her side, bent down, and said, in low tone:
“I like that.”
“You like what?” she said coolly enough.
“The brave way in which you have mastered your weakness.”
She smiled and looked furtively at her sister, who was less successful in controlling her feelings.