The pale, emaciated face above her never softened; the eyes never wavered. Yet a reasoning anguish crept into the insane glare. After all, nothing mattered except this one great pain in his heart. What was it he wanted to know? Yes--he remembered! The truth!--the truth! "And Philip Danvers?" The change in tone gave so great relief that Eva became hysterical, not understanding the obscure connection. "Oh, Senator Danvers? He has had nothing to do with the lobbying. You know he is against Mr. Burroughs." She rose, again self-possessed, feeling herself able to explain all untoward circumstances. "Come, you are worn from your journey. Lie here on the couch and I'll get you some wine." But her husband resisted, dumbly, looking at her as a starving dog might look at the hand that had enticed him by pretending to offer food. Words came, at last, while he beat his hands together in agony. "I cannot bear it--I cannot! They said you and Phil had an affair in the Whoop Up Country----" "What are you saying?" came from Eva, sharply. She went from fear to fury. "You've been listening to some malicious gossip," she screamed; "and now you come home to frighten me into spasms!" The rage covered her fright. "There's not a word of truth in it!" "Tell me the truth!" The God on high could not have been more mandatory. The woman dared not lie again. Her anger, rather than her self-respect, brought the truth like a charge of dynamite from the muddy waters of her soul. "Well, then, it _is_ the truth! I was engaged to Philip Danvers at Fort Macleod. I threw him over afterwards, because he had no money and you had. Now are you satisfied?" The cruel desire to hurt gave this added thrust. "No? Then let me tell you that I have never loved you, never! I've always loved Philip Danvers--always--always--always!" Her voice rose in crescendo. At last it was spoken. Eva stood at bay, her jewels glittering on bare shoulders and arms as balefully as her eyes flashed hate. "God!" Latimer reeled, and put his hand on his heart, but recovered himself. "And Philip"--the words came in a chill whisper--"did he love--you?" "You'd better ask him!" Eva was wholly beside herself, in the reaction of a weak woman's fear. "Phil--my friend!" he choked, started and winced, putting his hand again over his heart; then fell heavily. The woman screamed in fright and knelt beside him. "Arthur, he never cared--after I dismissed him. He despised me. He despises me now--more than you ever can. Oh, God in heaven! What have I done?" Remorse followed swiftly on her anger. Latimer was conscious as his wife raised his head. He had understood her confession, and although he could not speak he motioned for her to seek assistance; but the effort was too much, and he again sank back, moaning. Eva laid him gently down, and flew to the door. As she opened it she fell against Danvers, coming from Winifred's side.