She stirred in his arms, and pressed closer to him. “David — forgive me — I can’t tell it over — it hurts me.”

“Go on,” he said hoarsely.

“The old man told me what was expected of you because of them — how your mother wished you to marry a great lady — and I knew they could never have heard of me — and I forgot to eat my dinner and stayed in my room and fought and fought with myself — I’m sorry I felt that way, David. Don’t mind. I understand now.” She put up her hand and touched his cheek, and he took it in his and kissed it. Then she laughed a sad little laugh.

“Remember that funny little old silver teapot. Mother brought it to me before I left, and I