She was a trifle pale, and though the pity for him was there, it is possible that she had understood him, and she was very proud.

Thus the silence that was perilous lasted too long, and her voice was a trifle strained in place of gentle as she said, "I am so sorry." Alton, who dared not look at her, now bent his head.

"You are very kind--still, it can't be helped," he said.

"I think Mrs.Forel is coming back for you.

Somebody is going to sing." Their hostess approached the doorway, and Alice Deringham found words fail her as she watched the man, though she knew that the silence was horribly eloquent.