"O — I'd rather stay here."
They sat a little while without speaking another word; and then Winthrop withdrawing his arm proposed to have 'some light on the subject.' Winifred sprang to get it, but he held her back, and himself got the candle and lit it and placed it on the table. The light shewed Winnie's face flushed and unresting, and of doubtful signification about the eyes. Winthrop came and took his former place and position by her side.
"How has the day been with you, Winnie?"
The tone was most gentle and kindly. Winnie hesitated and then said,
"It hasn't been good."
"What's the matter?"
"I haven't been good."
"That isn't such a new thing that you need be surprised at it, — is it?" he said gently.
"No" — under breath.
"And it isn't so strange a thing that I love you a bit the less for it."