"No, dear," she exclaimed; "I was referring to our terrible loss. My heart has been bleeding for you--"
"It is very kind, I'm sure," said Dora quietly; "I forgot that I had not seen you since the news reached us."
It is probable that her self-control cost her more than she suspected. Her lips were drawn and dry. She wore a thick veil, which she carefully abstained from lifting above the level of her eyes. "I am sure," moaned Sister Cecilia, "it has been a most trying time for us all. I wonder that Mrs. Agar has borne up so bravely. Her health is wonderful, considering."
Dora sat looking straight in front of her. She was withdrawing her gloves slowly. Her face was that of a person whose mind was made up for the endurance of an operation.
The twaddling voice, the characteristic reference
