r was over, and Pat's natural vigour of constitution
made the convalescence unusually quick, but even when he was
comparatively well again, Bridgie refused in an altogether amazing and
unprecedented manner to return to her beloved home. She suggested not
once, but many times in succession, that Pixie should return in her
place to take the head of the household, but here Pat grew obstinate in
his turn.

No! Pixie had had all the dull work of nursing; he was not going to
allow her to return until she had had some fun. And when he began to go
out for walks, pray, who was going to accompany him, if Pixie went away?
"You'd be off after her, the moment you saw me on my feet. Don't deny
it, for I know better!" Pat declared, and Bridgie blushed, and did not
deny it. Already she was pining for Dick and the children; already
counting the hours to her return, _but_...

Movement was evidently in the air; perhaps it was caused by the bright,
spring days which had replaced the former gloom. Pat on his bed
discussed a possible holiday before returning to work. "It might hurry
things," he said. "What do you say, Pixie, seaside or country? Must go
somewhere where there's something to _do_! Winter garden, concerts,
bands, people to look at. I want to be amused. We'll have a week
somewhere, and blow expense. You might come too, Glynn, and bring the
car."

Glynn was sitting in his usual place beside the fire; Bridgie was by the
bed; Pixie prone on the hearthrug. During the last few days the invalid
had been sufficiently strong to enjoy the society of his fellows, had
even called upon Pixie to sing, and had apparently greatly enjoyed the
hearing, though Bridgie seemed for once unappreciative, and had
discouraged further efforts. Now his mind had turned on to holidays,
and he had made this direct appeal to Stephen, which seemed to find
scant favour from two out of the three hearers.

Bridgie frowned, and stared at the carpet; Stephen's pale face showed a
discomfited flush.

"You shall have the car with pleasure. It shall take you wherever you
decide to go, and be at your service for as long as you please, but for
myself, I must get home. I--I am not usually in town for so long at a
time. There are several things waiting attention which should not be
delayed. I must get back..."

There was a dead silence, while each one of the three hearers realised
the futility of the excuse. Stephen's estate was in the hands of a