 the result of the test to which you have been
exposed. But I shall say and think no more of it. As you leave soon, I would
suggest that we should be on the terms of ordinary acquaintances for the
remaining time; the present state of things is both disagreeable and foolish. It
will always seem to me a very singular thing that you should have continued to
live in this house; but that, of course, was in your own discretion. - M.D.«
    This was on the morning when Cecily and her companions went to Pompeii.
Towards luncheon-time, Clifford entered the drawing-room, and there found Mrs.
Lessingham in conversation with Madeline. The former looked towards him in a way
which seemed to invite his approach.
    »Another idle morning, Mr. Marsh?« was her greeting.
    »I had a letter at breakfast that disturbed me,« he replied, seating himself
away from Madeline.
    »I'm sorry to hear that.«
    »Mr. Marsh is very easily disturbed,« said Madeline, in a light tone of many
possible meanings.
    »Yes,« admitted Clifford, leaning back and letting his head droop a little;
»I can seldom do anything when I am not quite at ease in mind. Rather a
misfortune, but not an uncommon one with artists.«
    The conversation turned on this subject for a few minutes, Madeline taking
part in it in a way that showed her resolve to act as she had recommended in her
note. Then Mrs. Lessingham rose and left the two together. Madeline seemed also
about to move; she followed the departing lady with her eyes, and at length, as
though adding a final remark, said to Clifford:
    »There are several things you have been so kind as to lend me that I must
return before you go, Mr. Marsh. I will make a parcel of them, and a servant
shall take them to your room.«
    »Thank you.«
    Since the quarrel, Madeline had not worn her ring of betrothal, but this was
the first time she had spoken of returning presents.
    »I am sorry you have had news that disturbed you,« she continued, as if in
calm friendliness. »But I dare say it is something you will soon forget. In
future you probably won't think so much of little annoyances.«
    »Probably not.«
    She smiled, and walked away, stopping to glance at a picture before she left
the room. Clifford was left with knitted brows and uneasy mind; he had not
believed
