"I didn't see," she murmured; "I thought-you—had—forgotten."

"No," he said; "you never saw. It doesn't matter; I know now it would never have been any use. Hush, dear; don't talk; it's so bad for you!"

"I'm sorry. But I was his before you came. I couldn't. Could I?"

"No, of course. Don't worry; don't, for God's sake! There's nothing to be sorry about. I must go to the next ward; I shall see you this afternoon. Try to sleep a little, won't you?"

He went out, with a word to the nurse, who came back; and Mary lay silent.

Presently she said:

"Sophie—yes, this afternoon,"

Something in the voice startled; the girl gulped before she spoke:

"All right! he shall hear as soon as he comes."

"Don't forget."