at the shops, and groan in chorus over all the distracting
fripperies which we want so badly, and can't afford. We pretend we have
weighty business; but that is the true explanation, isn't it, dear?"

"Oh yes--I love shop windows!" replied Mrs Asplin vaguely. She had
wandered to the window, and stood looking out on to the garden, with her
back turned to her companions. Peggy would have followed, but, on her
approach, the other walked quickly forward and began stooping over the
flower-beds, and snipping off the withered blossoms. For some reason it
was evident that she did not wish to be followed, and Peggy felt an
uneasy pang at the sight of her flushed, exhausted face. During her
lengthened visit to the vicarage she had become more and more conscious
of the lack of strength shown by the dear mistress of the house. Her
spirit was as cheery as ever, but she no longer raced up and down in her
old impetuous manner, but rather spent half her time resting on the
sofa, with the busy hands lying idly on her lap.

She did not like to make any protest, since Mrs Asplin's mind was
evidently set on going to town, but she privately registered a
determination to charter a hansom by the hour, and see that the shopping
expedition was conducted in the most luxurious manner possible.

It did not seem as if there was much to be done after all, for Peggy's
business being concluded, her companion invested in a yard of ribbon,
and some Berlin wool, and then pronounced her shopping finished.

"But there is something else I have to do, dear," she explained,
catching the girl's glance of amazement. "The real reason why I came up
to-day was to see a doctor. I did not wish to distress them at home,
but I've not been feeling well, Peg; I have not been well for a long
time. I have made an appointment with a doctor in Harley Street, and if
you will go with me I'll be very grateful. I am not nervous, but--but
it feels a little bit lonesome to go alone!"

She turned her face towards the girl and smiled at her, with sweet,
tired eyes, and Peggy's heart gave a sickening throb of apprehension.
She put out her hand and slid it lovingly through the other's arm.

"Of course I'll go, and proud that you ask me! Poor darling! so that is
the way you do your shop-staring! It is just like you to allow yourself
to be blamed, rather than give pain or anxiety. I thought you were
looking ill, and am so glad you have made up your mind to consult a