"George, what has happened?" she exclaimed, feeling the surety of his expressive countenance.
His expression changed. He came to her, and taking her hand he said kindly:
"Edith, it is several months since I have seen you. It is such a pleasant surprise to do so now. I asked for Mr. Hester, and Mrs. Hester appears."
She looked at him wonderingly. Could he change so in one minute?
"George, you are evading my question. Do not keep me in suspense. What have you to tell me?" she asked earnestly.
"What makes you imagine that I have any news for you, Edith?" he gravely returned.
"I cannot tell, but I am sure that you have," she answered.
"I came to speak with Mr. Hester," he returned evasively.
"Howard will not be home until very late tonight, possibly not until tomorrow."
George received this news with a perplexed frown.