“Every day?”
“Not every day,” said Regina, “no, not every day.”
“Before I was married,” said Maudie in her most severe tone, “on the few occasions when daddy went away without you, he made a rule of writing every day.”
“He’s on business,” said Regina, feebly.
“Yes, darling, but he was on business then. You have heard from him?”
“I have,” said Regina.
“Oh, mother—I may as well tell you what’s in my mind.”
“I think you had better not,” said Regina faintly.
“I’m sure I ought to do so. I can’t bear to go on deceiving you any longer.”
“Deceiving me?” said Regina. Her tone was feeble but questioning.