Even then a dim foreshadowing of something monstrously like destruction impelled her to try to get away. She was surprised, awed at her own instinctive impulse. She could not think what she had to be afraid of. And yet she was afraid--terribly afraid. A black cloud was descending upon her. She must get away from him at all costs. But he insisted on detaining her. “There was some fine skating on the High Wood pond last night,” he said; and she said: “Was there?” “Did you go up?” he asked; and she said: “No: I didn’t know there would be any.” “Can you skate?” he asked; and she said: “Not on the ice--only on rollers.” And he laughed and said: “You ought to learn--it is a fine exercise. I expect there will be some more to-night if it doesn’t snow.” And deep and dim within her was the awful premonition of doom. All this small talk about skating and ice and snow brought the black cloud almost to the level of her eyes. Then he said: “By the way, I’ve a bit of news for you.” She did not remember whether she enquired, “What is it?” or just remained silent. “Miss Trant and I are engaged to be married.” “Is that all?” she said lightly. “I thought--oh, I thought--oh, well, congratulations!” “I have accepted a post at Harvard University in the States, and Miss Trant and I are to be married very soon and take up our position there.” “Still as your amanuensis?--she, I mean?” “Yes--to a certain extent. Of course, I may have to employ a typist to do the heavy work.” “Of course.” “I have never been to the States.” “Nor have I.... I suppose they are ... very different.” “Possibly.... I can recommend you to a good organizer, if you would rather not manage for yourself.... Though I would recommend the latter.” “Concerts, you mean?” “Yes. Most organizers will want a big commission.... Why not do it yourself? ... I believe in being independent....” “So do I ... perhaps I will....” “You ought to have a successful run in Scotland.... Of course, if you should ever come to the States ... we should be pleased to see you....” “Oh yes, I would certainly visit you. Let me see, did you say Harvard? That’s Massachusetts, isn’t it?” “Yes.... I’ll let you know the exact address when I know it ... my train is signalled ... I am going up to town to arrange for a sailing next month ... or the end of this....” “Yes? ... is Helen quite well?” “Very well ... she does not see much of you now ... but of course both she and you are busy....” “She will like the voyage ... she is a good sailor....” “Oh?” “Yes ... we once went to Yarmouth ... it was very rough ... but she was all right....” “That’s good ... my train ... well, I’ll write you the address.... I wish you all success ... good-bye ...” “Good-bye.” Their hands met, clasped and unclasped, silently, meaninglessly. The cloud broke and fell.... She climbed the slope on to the white highway....