Little 'Melia said nothing, but passionately squeezed her sister's hand.
"You are all dears," said Tilly in a clear voice, "and I love you for the way you have stood by me to-day; but I want to speak to the others just now."
She took a step forward towards the Mainwarings, who were grouped beside the tea-table. But before she could speak, Dicky, who had been hovering silently on the outer wing of his own party, crossed the floor and joined her.
"I'll come and stand over here, Tilly," he said, "if you don't mind. There's a nasty draught in that corner."
Tilly smiled faintly.
"I would rather you did n't," she said, with the suspicion of a tremor in her voice. "Please go over there."
Dicky responded by standing-at-ease, military fashion.
"Carry on," he said briefly.
"Please, Dicky!" urged Tilly, "It only makes it harder for me."
Dicky glanced at her white face, and retired one pace backward.