"As usual, you don't want to be bothered talking about it," he said with a shade of impatience.
"No, no. Will" she answered quickly. "I want to talk with you to-night. You must tell me every ugly detail. Perhaps I can help you."
He held her out at arms' length, and eyed her curiously.
"Whence this change? Too bad it didn't come sooner. It is too late now," he said cynically.
Alma felt hurt. Her first attempt to be unselfish he repulsed. Her little petulant frown appeared, and the light died from her eyes.
Instantly his tone changed. Drawing her face down to his, he murmured tenderly,
"Smile, dearest. I need it. Yes, the change has come too late, but thank God it has come. You will have many chances to show your courage, dear."
She drew away from him like a frightened child.
"O, Will, what is going to happen?"
"God alone knows, Alma." Then his eyes shot a sudden fire and the grasp of his hand hurt.