"He didn't ask to see you, madam, asked for Mr. Hester. When I said he was not at home, he took no notice of me, but stood gazing out of the window, just thinking like, so I thought I would bring the card to you."
"Quite right. I will be down very soon," returned Edith, putting the finishing touches to her toilet.
Experiencing a warm glow of welcome for her old friend, her spirits rose.
She hastened down and entered the parlor softly.
George stood with his back to her, looking gravely out of the window, watching the storm. He did not even hear her enter. The scene seemed to have the same fascination for him that it had for her a while ago.
"George," she said gently.
He started from his reverie and turned.
Speechless he stood, with an expression never to be forgotten.
His full direct glance shot momentarily joy intermingled with passionate longing. Then he swept her with a look, filled with a great penetrating compassion. His strong features were softened by unfathomable sorrow, and Edith, not understanding, yet felt the influence of his soul strength.
At first came an exultant glow—a reaction from her lonely mood. Then came a sudden fear, in answer to his great over-powering sympathy.