As she spoke, she caressed his forehead and he closed his eyes in gratitude.
After a moment he opened them upon her fondly.
"George himself gave me the problem to solve," he said gently, "I cannot sleep now. Go to dreamland, dearest, and don't make it harder for me by disputing."
"Good-night, then, if you won't come. But don't exhaust yourself, Will."
For answer he drew her down and pressed her closely to his breast.
"Good-night, Alma,—dear little wife," he said in passionate low tones. "Whatever comes, dearest, remember I have always loved you to distraction. You believe it?"
"Yes, yes. I know it, Will. Of course you have."
His strange mood disconcerted her and she was glad to go.
Kissing him lightly, she left the room, turning at the door to say smilingly,
"Remember dear, you must not linger long."