"He thinks you are——"
"That also makes no difference. I love him and I shall make him happy. He need never know."
"It will not be easy."
"I do not mind. Doctor, do you remember the words you used yourself not so many weeks ago? You said he ought to have 'just a little happiness for all the years he has missed.' Well, he is going to have it."
"What will Mrs. Heathcote say?"
"I don't know. I have written to tell her that I am engaged to be married to Francis. I think she will be surprised."
He shook his head doubtfully. "You know what Francis is to me—but I cannot see this clearly. Above all I desire his happiness, but I can't quite see that this is the right way to get it."
"Don't be afraid," said Philippa. "Time will show you that I am right. Anyway, you will give me your promise not to interfere."
"I do not see that I can interfere," he said slowly. "You have taken the matter into your own hands."
"Promise me," she repeated.