consider quite
admissible in those early days. Her own absorption in her picture was
quite another matter, be it understood! And, in truth, she would
gladly have had him in the studio, ensconced in his own chair, and
available for argument or love-making according to her mood. Hitherto
she had resisted temptations to invade his study when she knew him to
be at work. But this afternoon a vague spirit of unrest had gotten
hold of her, making the thought of his diligence, and complacent
detachment from her, peculiarly exasperating; and before long
exasperation drove her to the door of his sanctum.

It stood ajar: and pushing it open, she went softly in. His back was
towards her, and his concentration so complete that he was not aware of
her till she stood at his elbow. Then he started and looked up with a
smothered exclamation of doubtful character.

"Hullo, my lady, I thought this was against regulations! What's up?"

She perched lightly on the arm of his chair.

"Nothing's up. I'm rather 'down,' that's all; or I wouldn't have
infringed your territorial rights! _Do_ leave off being a model of
industry, and come into the studio."

"But, my dear girl, . . why?"

"Because I want you. Isn't that reason enough? There'll be plenty of
time to finish grinding out dry-as-dust facts about Tibet after tea."

"I'm afraid not. I told Desmond I'd get down to the tent-pegging
early. Is it really anything important, lass?" he added, controlling
his impatience with an effort.

"Oh dear, no, not the least in the world!" She was on her feet now:
head erect: dignity incarnate. "Unless it is important to do what your
wife asks you with good grace. But I believe little illusions of that
kind are warranted not to outlast four months of marriage."

He brought his hand sharply down on the table.

"Quita, you are talking childish nonsense. Why the dickens can't you
leave me in peace till I'm through? I shan't be much longer now: and
you can lecture me on the whole duty of husbands all the evening, if
you've a mind to."

"Indeed I've not. Duty never gets a word in edgeways, while Love is
master of the house. If it ever comes to 'duty' between you and me, I
shall pack my kit and go, I promise you. It's the reality or nothing
for me.--But don't hurry your work on my account, _mon ami_," she
added, on her way to the door. "I shall probably drive over to
Honor's, and leave you in peace till dinner-time. In fact, you