My words were half prayer, half groan. I felt suddenly weak, sick throughout my whole body.
"I wish I might bear this for you, dear girl. I had to say it. I could not let you go on—"
"I know, I know, you did your duty—but don't say anything more."
I held out my hand. "I shall be up in the morning and get your breakfast; it's so early for you to start. The others won't be up."
"I wish you would," he said eagerly. "I must satisfy myself that you are up and about before I go, otherwise—" He hesitated.
"Don't worry. I shall be about just the same—only now—"
"I know; you want to be alone—you can bear no more. Good night." He left the room abruptly.
XXX
Mechanically I covered the dying fire with ashes; lighted my candle; snuffed out those in the sconces, and went out into the kitchen. I wound the clock and set my bread to rise. I heard one of the dogs whining in the dining-room; he had been unintentionally shut in. I let him out. He showed his gratitude in his dog's way and followed me, unbidden, upstairs to my room.