— XXII —MRS. THURSTON INQUIRES FOR HER HUSBAND
Never before had there been such a breakfast at the rectory as that. The two little children were the only persons who were at their ease. The aunt, Miss Rodda, was uncomfortably conscious that there was not only electricity in the domestic atmosphere, but also that there was something very curious and even mysterious in the entire situation. Her sister, usually the most easy-going of women, was evidently in a condition of physical and mental disturbance which it was not agreeable to have forced upon one’s notice. The rector was if anything in a worse state than his wife. It is strange what strain and sleeplessness can do for a healthy man in the course of a single night. Mr. Campion looked actually ill. His usual morning appetite had forsake
