THE UNEXPECTED Late in the evening Wilfrid received a visit from his father.

Mr.Athel had dined with his sister, and subsequently accompanied his nieces to a concert.

Beatrice should have sung, but had broken her engagement on the plea of ill-health.
'Been at home all the evening ?' Mr.Athel began by asking.
'I got home late,' Wilfrid answered, rising from his chair.
His father had something to say which cost him hesitation.

He walked about with his hands between the tails of his coat.
'Seen Beatrice lately ?' he inquired at length.
'No; not since last Monday.' 'I'm afraid she isn't well.

She didn't sing to-night.