And, as she made no reply: "Friends—more than friends, possibly; never less. And you know it, and so do I," he said under his breath.
She turned sharply toward the window and looked out across the foggy hills.
"If that is what you believe, Mr. Desboro, perhaps you had better go."
"Do you send me?"
"Always the decision seems to lie with me. Why do you not decide for yourself?"
"I will; and for you, too, if you will let me relieve you of the burden."
"I can carry my own burdens."
Her back was still toward him. After a moment she rested her head against the curtained embrasure, as though tired.
He hesitated; there were good impulses in him, but he went over to her, and scarcely meaning to, put one arm lightly around her waist.