“No one but Asher.” This was the man who was to serve under Faunce in the new expedition. “I had to except him, of course. Last night I got a despatch, and I must go to New York to-day; but you needn’t be hurried, dear. I’ll come back to-night or to-morrow morning, and we’ll have a day or two more together before we start.”
Diane understood now his frequent lonely strolls at nightfall. He had gone to the post-office for mail that he had concealed from her. She had a strange sensation, which involved no jealousy of her husband’s private affairs. She felt as if the universe moved beneath her feet, confirming her feeling, too, that there was some new and impalpable barrier between them; but she made no sign of it. Instead, she put her elbow on the table and rested her chin in the hollow of her hand, while she regarded him with a quiet gaze.
“I wish you had told me!”
He moved restlessly in his chair.
“Why should I? It was such a simple thing to do—so obviously necessary. I had to keep in touch with Captain Asher. Except for that, you’ve been the whole world to me,” he added, with that subtle gentleness which no man knew better how to use.
She smiled almost tremulously.
“I’m not jealous! Only——”
She rose abruptly and went to the window, looking out again on the hills. He followed her and put his arm around her.
“Only what, sweetheart?”
She hesitated; then she turned and met his eyes. Their faces were so close together that she felt his breath warm on her cheek.