There seemed to be a tacit understanding between them that their disagreements and coldness toward each other were to be concealed from all the rest of the world; in the old happy days they had always gone down together to the drawing-room or the tea-table, therefore would do so still.
Also, they studiously guarded their words and looks in the presence of any third person.
Yet Elsie, the tender mother, with eyes sharpened by affection, had already perceived that all was not right. She had noted Zoe's disturbed look when Edward seemed specially interested in Miss Deane's talk or Miss Fleming's music, and had silently determined not to ask them to prolong their stay at Ion.
The supper-bell rang as Edward and Zoe descended the stairs together, and they obeyed its summons without going into the drawing-room.
Violet's place at the table was vacant as well as that of Max, and Lulu and Gracie bore the traces of tears about their eyes.
These things reminded Zoe of Max's trouble, forgotten for a time in her own, and she thought pityingly of him in his imprisonment, wondered if he would be put upon prison fare, and determined to find out, and if he were, to try to procure him something better.
She made an errand to her own rooms soon after leaving the table, went to his door and knocked softly.
"Who's there?" he asked in a voice half choked with sobs.
"It is I, Maxie," she said in an undertone at the keyhole, "Zoe, you know. I want to say I'm ever so sorry for you, and always ready to do anything I can to help you."
"Thank you," he said, "but I mustn't see anybody, so can't open the door; and, indeed," with a heavy sob, "I'm not fit company for you or any of the rest."