So that as she's different for YOU--" "Ah but," he interrupted, "she's not." And as Miss Gostrey wondered again: "She's the same.

She's more than ever the same.

But I do what I didn't before--I SEE her." He spoke gravely and as if responsibly--since he had to pronounce; and the effect of it was slightly solemn, so that she simply exclaimed "Oh!" Satisfied and grateful, however, she showed in her own next words an acceptance of his statement.

"What then do you go home to ?" He had pushed his plate a little away, occupied with another side of the matter; taking refuge verily in that side and feeling so moved that he soon found himself on his feet.

He was affected in advance by what he believed might come from her, and he would have liked to forestall it and deal with it tenderly; yet in the presence of it he wished still more to be--though as smoothly as possible--deterrent and conclusive.