Failure was unthinkable.
When they rose from the table she waited for Vera and slipped a hand into her arm.
"Do make an excuse for me," she whispered.

"I have had a dreadful day, and I can't stand any more.

I am going upstairs." "My dear!" murmured back Vera, by way of protest.
Nevertheless she made the excuse almost as soon as they entered the drawing-room, and Doris fled upstairs on winged feet.

At the head she met Caryl about to descend; almost collided with him.

He had evidently been up to his room to fetch something.
He stood aside for her at once.
"You are not retiring yet ?" he asked.
She scarcely glanced at him.