"It was the least I could do," said Maureen; "but please, I should like something to eat. I want to rest for half an hour, and then I must see Henrietta."
"Oh, my child, you cannot go through fresh tortures with that terrible girl to-day."
"But indeed, please, I must. I have come here for the sake of those girls. May I have something—anything—sustaining. You see," continued Maureen, "I sort of—sort of put my life into Daisy. That's why I feel so tired. It can be done, and I did it."
At that moment the door was opened and one of the many nice servants appeared, carrying a tray of refreshing food for Maureen to eat. There was also a tiny glass of invalid wine.
"Lie on the bed, darling," said Mrs. Faithful, "and I will feed you."
"No," said Maureen. "Dear Mrs. Faithful, be as kind to me as you like to-night, when my task is over. But until it is over kindness might make me break down. By the way, is Dom here?"
"Of course he is. Would you like to see him?"
"Not yet."
"Then eat, dearest, eat. Don't take your glass of wine first. Eat."
Maureen smiled faintly, but obeyed.