me! Do not be vexed--do not think that I value what
you have done for me according to a wretched standard of money. If I pay
everything, instead of you, I shall be far more grateful, and more truly
in your debt."

"But think of my feelings, too!" she said. "I have had my own way so
far, because you could not help it. If you are going to be unkind and
tyrannical as soon as you get well, I shall find it in my heart to be
almost sorry. Do not let money considerations come in! You promised that
you would not say anything of the kind before the end of the month."

"I promised something; but I don't think I am breaking my promise in
spirit. Look here; I have not been in retreat for six months without a
certain benefit in the way of economy. Here's a cheque for a hundred
pounds. I want you to get it cashed, and to use it."

"I have plenty of money," Lettice said, patting impatiently with her
foot on the floor. "I cannot take this; and until the month is out I
will not talk about any kind of business whatsoever. There, sir!"

Alan did not want to annoy her, and let the subject drop for the time.

"You shall have your way in all things, except that one," he said; "but
I will not mention it again until you give me leave."

The truth is that Lettice did not know what was to happen at the end of
the month, or whenever her tenancy of Bute Lodge might be concluded. How
was she to leave Alan, or to turn him out of doors, when the object of
her receiving him should have been accomplished? Was it already fully
accomplished? He had been saved from despair, and from the danger of a
physical relapse; was he now independent of anything she could do for
him? It gave her a pang to think of that possibility, but she would have
to think of it and to act upon it very soon. She could not put off the
evil day much beyond the end of November; before Christmas they must
come to an understanding--nay, she must come to an understanding with
her own heart; for did not everything depend on her firmness and
resolution?

Not everything! Though she did not know it, Alan was thinking for her
just what she could not think for herself. He could not fail to see that
Lettice had staked her reputation to do as she had done for him. As his
perception grew more keen, he saw with increasing clearness. A man just
recovering from serious illness will accept sacrifices from his friends
with little or no demur, which in full health he would not willingly
permit.