I said, “and I must prescribe for you. My first prescription is that we do not talk about Alresca’s death.”

I endeavored to be perfectly matter-of-fact in tone, and gradually she grew calmer.

“I have not slept since that night,” she murmured wearily. “Then you will not tell me?”

“What have I to tell you, except that you are ill? Stop a moment. I have an item of news, after all. Poor Alresca has made me his heir.”

“That was like his kind heart.”

“Yes, indeed. But I can’t imagine why he did it!”

“It was just gratitude,” said she.