“Hush, Alexis, you must not think of yourself now. Remember poor Claire. Come, you must be brave.” Her voice was gentle.
“You make me ashamed!” he cried. “But I love you so. I don’t know what would become of me if I should have to lose you, Anne!”
He raised her hands to his lips and kissed them over and over.
“Promise that you will not forsake me, that you will let me remain your friend.”
Tears trembling on her lids, she looked down upon his bent head.
“I promise,” she murmured.
With a smothered cry he released her. He turned his back abruptly and strode across the room.
“What time does the early train leave?” he inquired huskily from the doorway.
“At six, I believe,” responded Anne faintly. “Regina will pack for you and of course Howard will drive you down to the village,” she continued more firmly.
“Thank you.”