“ You had better go to her,” he whispered in a penetrating tone.
“ Of course I will,” said Arlette with some feeling. “Poor old thing. She and I have only each other in the world, but I am the daughter here, she must do what I tell her.” With one of her hands on Réal’s shoulder she put her mouth close to the door and said distinctly:
“ I am coming directly. Go back to your room and wait for me,” as if she had no doubt of being obeyed.
A profound silence ensued. Perhaps Catherine had gone already. Réal and Arlette stood still for a whole minute as if both had been changed into stone.
“ Go now,” said Réal in a hoarse, hardly audible voice.
She gave him a quick kiss on the lips, and again they stood like a pair of enchanted lovers bewitched into immobility.
“ If she stays on,”
