 frightened she darted
noiselessly like a kingfisher. When she was serene she skimmed like a swallow,
and that is how she was moving now.
    »You are looking very blithe, upon my word, Tamsie,« said Mrs. Yeobright,
with a sad smile. »How is Damon?«
    »He is very well.«
    »Is he kind to you, Thomasin?« And Mrs. Yeobright observed her narrowly.
    »Pretty fairly.«
    »Is that honestly said?«
    »Yes, aunt. I would tell you if he were unkind.« She added, blushing, and
with hesitation, »He - I don't know if I ought to complain to you about this,
but I am not quite sure what to do. I want some money, you know, aunt - some to
buy little things for myself - and he doesn't give me any. I don't like to ask
him; and yet, perhaps, he doesn't give it me because he doesn't know. Ought I to
mention it to him, aunt?«
    »Of course you ought. Have you never said a word on the matter?«
    »You see, I had some of my own,« said Thomasin evasively; »and I have not
wanted any of his until lately. I did just say something about it last week; but
he seems - not to remember.«
    »He must be made to remember. You are aware that I have a little box full of
spade-guineas, which your uncle put into my hands to divide between yourself and
Clym whenever I chose. Perhaps the time has come when it should be done. They
can be turned into sovereigns at any moment.«
    »I think I should like to have my share - that is, if you don't mind.«
    »You shall, if necessary. But it is only proper that you should first tell
your husband distinctly that you are without any, and see what he will do.«
    »Very well, I will. ... Aunt, I have heard about Clym. I know you are in
trouble about him, and that's why I have come.«
    Mrs. Yeobright turned away, and her features worked in her attempt to
conceal her feelings. Then she ceased to make any attempt, and said, weeping, »O
Thomasin, do you think he hates me? How can he bear to grieve me so, when I have
lived only for him through all these years?«
    »Hate you - no
