"We shall have snow before night," said Philip.
"Humph!" said Charles and glanced toward the sky, but made no move to go.
"The child is growing."
To this Charles made no reply whatever and Philip bleated on. "Her mother's body," he said, "but your eyes and hair, cousin."
Charles could stand no more. He pushed the child away and rose to his feet. Philip, to give him no tithe of advantage, rose too.
"Now," said Charles squarely, "where is my wife? Is she hiding from me?"
Then Philip's face must grow very grave and his mouth set in sad lines.
"She is ill, Charles. I would have told you sooner, but you lacked interest."
Charles swallowed to steady his voice.