"Robert had no friends," she said, "and Sisily led a very lonely life.

Robert told me that yesterday.

That was the reason he wanted me to take charge of her--so as to give her the opportunity of making some girl friends of her own age." She paused, embarrassed by the recollection that her brother's real intention in placing Sisily in her charge was altogether different.
Barrant noted her hesitation, and interpreted it aright.
"No," he said.

"The real reason of your brother parting with his daughter provides the motive for her return to his house last night.

What happened between them is a matter for conjecture, at present.