Folding the shawl closer to her throat, as if she felt chilly, and coughing a little as she walked, Ellen went round to the hall-door and entered. Richard, occupied in watching her and busy with his own thoughts, did not perceive the almost silent approach of Arthur Bohun, who came slowly up from behind.
"Well, Dick, old fellow!"
"Why, where did you spring from?" asked Richard, as Arthur flung himself down in the place vacated by Ellen.
"I have been under yonder tree, smoking a cigar. It has a good broad trunk to lean against."
"I thought the doctors had forbidden you to smoke."
"So they have. Until I grew stronger. One can't strictly obey orders. I don't suppose it matters much one way or the other. You have been enjoying a confidential chat, Dick."
"Yes," replied Richard. He had not felt very friendly in his heart towards Arthur for some time past. What was the meaning of his changed behaviour to Ellen Adair?--what of the new friendship with Mary Dallory? Richard North could not forgive dishonour; and he believed Arthur Bohun was steeping himself in it to the backbone.
"Were you making love, Dick?"
Richard turned his eyes in silence on the questioner.
"She and I have had to part, Dick. I always thought you admired and esteemed her almost more, perhaps quite more, than you do any other woman. So if you are thinking of her----"