Herbert spoke more tenderly.

“What is the matter, Clare? If it is a question of a doctor——”

“It’s the Eighth Year,” said Clare.

“The Eighth Year?”

“Yes, that’s what is the matter with me.”

“What on earth do you mean?” asked Herbert.

“Why, don’t you know? It was Madge Vernon who told me.”

“Told you what?”

“She seemed to think that everybody knew.”

“Knew what?” asked Herbert, exasperated beyond all patience.