Mrs. Davenport opened her lips as if to speak, but no words came. Then slowly and mutely the tears formed in her eyes and fell down upon her black dress. Alfred and O'Brien withdrew into the front room and closed the folding doors; the two girls stole noiselessly away.
Mr. Paulton moved to the window. Mrs. Davenport's head gradually sank on her chest; she breathed heavily, and swayed slightly to and fro. She rose slowly.
"I must go now," she said.
"No, no; you must not. You must stay with us. You are too lonely."
She looked fearfully into the other woman's eyes.
"I have been alone since I was born, and I am afraid."
"Afraid of what?" asked Mrs. Paulton, anxiously.
She thought the fear must have some connection with the widow's recent trial.
"I am afraid of companionship."
Mrs. Paulton rose and stood before her guest, gazing wonderingly into the dark, fathomless, tearful eyes, now startled, looking as though they expected to see a strange, disturbing object.