"It is not true—oh, it is not true!" Evelyn's hands went up to her head with a desperate cry. Then she swayed, tottered backward, and fell prone among the sofa cushions.
"Honor—come to me—I'm frightened!" she moaned, without lifting her head; and in an instant Honor was bending over her, murmuring brave words of encouragement, removing her hat, and mechanically smoothing her hair.
"Is—he still here?" Evelyn asked under her breath.
"Yes, dear. Do you want him?"
"No—no; send him away. I want you—only you!"
Wyndham was already nearing the door and Honor followed him out into the hall.
"You see she's a little off her balance, poor child."
"Yes, I see," he answered wearily. "And I thank God with all my heart that you are here. Will you tell Mrs Desmond that an escort is returning to-day with Theo and—the Boy. They will reach Kohat to-morrow evening."
Honor straightened herself suddenly.