He laid a gentle hand upon the yielding shoulder; her tiny bones felt soft like a kitten's bones.
"It is never peace for long, child," he answered.
* * * * * *
He had wired the date of his arrival to Miss Trefusis; the compromise of a reply to the letter he had not felt capable of answering. But he was not prepared to see the severely stately figure of that decisive lady waiting at the docks.
She greeted him as if they had parted yesterday.
"People remain vivid to me," she said in explanation, leading him to the closed limousine. "We are motoring to my place near town, and your heavy luggage can go by train. You are coming to stay with me until you've had time to choose your roost. On the way down in the car I can elucidate. Meanwhile, a brief catechism will clear the air. Married?"
Cyprian shook his head.
"I am glad," said the old lady. "Your having no responsibilities will simplify matters. Was leave due to you?"
"I took 'Urgent Private Affairs'."
"Good. They should more than occupy your attention. Get in."