"How do I know, with my wretched relations with him?" Mrs. Gereth asked. "I never knew how much I cared for them. They're awfully valuable, aren't they?" Owen's manner mystified her; she was conscious of a return of the agitation he had produced in her on that last bewildering day, and she reminded herself that, now she was warned, it would be inexcusable of her to allow him to justify the fear that had dropped on her. "Mother thinks I never took any notice, but I assure you I was awfully proud of everything. Upon my honor, I was proud, Miss Vetch."!

"No, nor love me," said Owen. "Of course, you know, she says she loves me." Her companion hesitated. "In your name?"

"It will seem very strange to me if you want me. But whatever you ask, whatever you need, that I will always do." The gesture, however, made the promise so definite that for a moment her companion was almost beguiled. But there was nothing to account, as yet, for the wealth of Mrs. Gereth's certitude: the visit of the lady of Waterbath appeared but half to explain it. "Is it permitted to be surprised," Fleda deferentially asked, "at Mrs. Brigstock's thinking it would help her to see you?" "Do you mean to say you'll have a regular kick-up with her?"