"I make any one laugh?"
"Yes. Just to look at you will do her good. Something beautiful. Something to take her out of herself——"
"Oh no, Peter, I can't. Please, please don't ask me."
"Yes, yes, you must." He was glaring at her as though he would strike her. "Do you remember when we three were in Henry's room alone and we swore friendship? We swore to help one another. Well, this is a way you can help me. And you've got to do it."
"Peter, don't ask me—just now——"
"Yes, now—at once. You have got to."
Suddenly she submitted.
"Very well, then. But I'll be no good. I'm no use to any one just now."
"When will you come?"
"Soon. . . ."