Princess, I knew about the Charity League papers.

I knew more than any except Stepan Lanovitch, and it was he who told me." He was stroking her shoulder with the soothing movements that one uses toward a child in distress.

His great hand, broad and thick, had a certain sense of quiet comfort and strength in it.

Etta ceased sobbing, and sat with bowed head, looking through her tears into the gay wood fire.

It is probable that she failed to realize the great charity of the man who was speaking to her.