“I thought Clare was feeling a bit lonely to-night. Perhaps I was mistaken.”
“I am often lonely,” said Clare. “Even when you are at home.”
“Aren’t you glad I have come back?” asked Herbert.
“Why do you ask me?”
“I should be glad if you were glad.” Clare’s husband became slightly sentimental as he looked at her.
“I have been thinking it is rather rotten to go off to the club and leave you here alone,” he said.
Mrs. Heywood was delighted with these words.
“Oh, you dear boy! How unselfish of you!”
“I try to be,” said Herbert.
“I am sure you are the very soul of unselfishness, Herbert, dear,” said the fond mother.