Tony’s appeal was perfectly genuine. Godfrey Palliser could ask no more questions, Appleby’s silence could be depended upon, and the cautious inquiries he had made through a London agency respecting Lucy Davidson had elicited the fact that she had taken to the stage and then apparently sailed for Australia. He had, he admitted, done wrong, but he resolved that he would henceforward live honorably, and, if it were permitted him, make Appleby some convenient reparation. Violet, who noticed the wistfulness in his eyes, responded to the little thrill in his voice, and but for what had passed a few minutes earlier might perhaps have promised to disregard conventionalities and hasten the wedding. As it was, however, she felt a curious constraint upon her, and a hesitation she could not account for. “No,” she said quietly. “We must wait, Tony.” “Why?” said the man. “It was his wish that we should not.” His companion looked at him, and there was something he failed to attach a meaning to in her eyes. “I can’t tell you,” she said slowly. “Still, you must not urge me, Tony. I feel that no good can come of it if we fail to show respect to him.” “But—” said the man; and Violet laid her hand upon his arm. “Tony,” she said, “be patient. I can’t make what I feel quite plain, but we must wait.” “Well,” said Tony with a sigh, “I will try to do without you until your mother thinks a fitting time has come.” “Then, if nothing very dreadful happens in the meanwhile, I will be ready.” Tony flicked the horse until it endeavored to break into a gallop, and then viciously tightened his grip on the reins. “You put it curiously,” he said. “What could happen?” “I don’t know,” said the girl. “Perhaps what took place so unexpectedly a few days ago has shaken me, for I feel vaguely apprehensive just now. I know of no reason why this should be, but we are all a prey to fancies now and then.” Tony looked down on her compassionately. “The last few days at Northrop have been too much for you—and I was a selfish brute for not sending you home,” he said. Violet made no answer, and there was silence between them while the dog‐ cart splashed on down the muddy road.