was taken,
to make all possible use of this woman whom she detested. Her voice
showed the change that had been wrought in her; she addressed her
hostess almost as though speaking to an inferior.

'What do you think it means, his keeping away?'

'Business, possibly. More likely--the other thing I spoke of.'

In this reply Mrs. Strangeways modified her tone, discarding
mellifluous tenderness, yet not going quite so far as Alma in neglect
of appearances. She was an older woman, and had learnt the
injudiciousness of impulsive behaviour.

'Speak plainly--it saves time. You think he won't care to meet me at
all again?'

'I don't say that. I should be very sorry indeed to think it. But--to
speak as plainly as you wish, dear--I know that someone must have said
unpleasant things to him about your--your friendship with Mr. Dymes.'

'Are you hinting at anyone in particular?' Alma asked, salving her
self-respect with a poor affectation of haughtiness.

'Ask yourself, my dear, who is at all likely to give him such
information.'

'Information?' Alma's eyes flashed. 'That's a strange word to use. Do
you imagine there is any information of that kind to be given?'

'I spoke carelessly,' answered the other, smiling. 'Do sit down, dear
Mrs. Rolfe. I'm sure you will overtax your strength before Tuesday. I
meant nothing whatever, I assure you.'

Reluctantly Alma became seated, and the conversation was prolonged.
Without disguise they debated the probability that Redgrave was being
estranged from Alma by Sibyl Carnaby; of course, taking for granted
Sibyl's guilt, and presuming that she feared rivalry. From time to time
Alma threw out scornful assertion of her own security; she was bold to
the point of cynicism, and recklessly revealed herself. The other
listened attentively, still smiling, but without constraint upon her
features; at moments she appeared to feel something of admiration.

'There are several things in your favour,' she remarked deliberately,
when Alma had declared a resolve to triumph at all hazards. 'Above
all--but one need not mention it.'

'What? I don't understand.'

'Oh, I'm sure you do! You alluded to it the other day. Some women have
such tiresome husbands.'

The look which accompanied this struck Alma cold. She sat motionless,
staring at the speaker.

'What do you mean? You think that my husband----?'

'I meant only to encourage you, my dear.'

'You think that my husband has less sense of honour t