etters, a process which made breakfast quite a
nervous time for her, because one small reverse--no more than an
unflattering review--upset him so and sometimes ruined his whole
morning's work, which meant he would be silent and depressed at
lunch-time.

To-day, however, having opened first the only letter in an unknown hand
as promising the most adventure, he said with real exhilaration:

"Ah, that's encouraging. That bucks one up!"

"What, good news, Hugh dear?" she inquired, delighted.

"Yes, the Kit Kat Club has asked me as its guest of honour."

Inwardly she was a little disappointed; she had hoped it would be some
money.

"How excellent!" she said, good wife; and then, "What _is_ the Kit Kat
Club?"

"Why, it's a well-known literary club," he answered, slightly hurt.
"They meet"--he read the card again--"at Lewisham."

"Capital!" she said: not because she had ever heard of Lewisham as a
great literary centre, but because he was so terrifically pleased.
"And when is it to be?"

"Very short notice," he said, looking once more at the invitation.
"This very Tuesday, January 29th. Lucky we never dine out!"

"But Hugh," she began, oh so disappointed, and then stopped. She had
told every one--well, Mrs. Boyd--that she was bringing Hugh this
time....

He understood. "Why, it's the lecture or debate," he said. "I _am_
sorry." There clearly was no question which should go. Then, much
more gently, remembering her keenness: "Never mind, little girl: we'll
find another nice debate. Let's see the list and we will pick one now."

Treats, of course, are seldom a success the second time. Helena, now,
did not dash for the list. In fact Hubert, looking up, saw that great
tears were rolling down her cheeks.

She could have killed herself for shame. It only proved how difficult
it was to be grown up, if you began too late!

And Hubert was not even touched by it. The silly action had no
sanction in success.

He got up angrily, without a word, but making it clear that he had
thought her selfish. He sat on the armchair and took up the
_Spectator_. This announced that breakfast was now over.

Helena felt that his rebuke was thoroughly deserved. What must he
think of her, when they took place each week and he had offered to come
to another? Of course he didn't know about that rude pig, Mrs. Boyd!

"Hugh dear," she said, also getting up, "I am so sorry; I feel such a
beast. It's only I was disappointed.