I went back to St. Cuthbert's about eleven o'clock in a state of horrible depression. I had promised to pay all the expenses of this illness, and how I was to do it I had not an idea. The year was nearly over and my funds were exceedingly low, but I could not help making Owen believe that I had more money than I knew how to spend. Outside St. Cuthbert's I met Mrs. Faulkner and Nina, and while Mrs. Faulkner was commenting upon my dejected appearance Nina told me frankly that I looked dirty. "I have been up all night," I said, for there was no longer any reason why I should not explain what had happened. "We were not in bed until four o'clock," Nina answered proudly. "What have you been doing?" Mrs. Faulkner asked. "I have been nursing a man who is ill," I replied. "Infectious?" Mrs. Faulkner asked breathlessly. "Pneumonia, double pneumonia, I believe," I answered. "And you heard about it yesterday afternoon?" Nina said. "Yes." "Then why didn't you tell us?" Mrs. Faulkner asked. "Fred and Nina have been quarrelling about you, and I have said the most awful things. You really might have more consideration." "I thought it would spoil your dance if I told you; I didn't know what was the matter with the man." "You are a dear, Godfrey," Nina said, and she linked her arm in mine. "I am an idiot if you want to call me any names," I replied. "You were always that," Nina said in the manner which is called playful; "we are just going to see Mr. Ward, who is perfectly charming; won't you come with us?" "I am going to have a bath, and then I must see Fred." Nina looked displeased. "What's the matter with Fred?" I asked. "He's as perfect as usual," Nina answered, and swung her parasol to show that she was not interested in him. "We are blocking the street, and you nearly hit a man in the eye with that thing," I said. "You will be in a better temper when you are cleaner," Nina retorted. "We go down at 4.15," Mrs. Faulkner said as we went into the lodge; "we are going on some river, the one that isn't deep, in a punt with Mr. Ward, and he is taking luncheon for us. Do you think it is quite safe, Godfrey?" "Quite, if Nina doesn't try to punt," I answered. "Must we go away this afternoon?" Nina asked. "My dear, I have three, if not four, people arriving to-night," Mrs. Faulkner replied. "I will be at the station to see you off," I said, for even if they wanted me I did not feel like punting on the Cherwell. I pointed out Jack Ward's rooms to Nina, and had walked half-way across the quad when Mrs. Faulkner called me back. "I hope your friend is better?" she asked. "He has only just begun to be ill," I answered. CHAPTER XV MISHAPS