t young
again. "We understand each other," she said simply.

A mocking smile played about Mrs. Ermsted's lips, but she said nothing
for the moment. In her own fashion she was fond of the surgeon's wife,
and she would not openly deride her, dear good soul.

"When you've quite finished that," she remarked presently, "there's a
tussore frock of my own I want to consult you about. There's one thing
about Stella; she won't be wanting many clothes, so I shall be able to
retain your undivided attention in that respect. I really don't know
what Tessa and I would do without you. The tiresome little thing is
always tearing her clothes to pieces."

Mrs. Ralston smiled, a soft mother-smile. "You're a lucky, lucky girl,"
she said, "though you don't realize it, and probably never will. When
are you going to bring the little monkey to see me again?"

"She will probably come herself when the mood takes her," carelessly
Mrs. Ermsted made reply. "I assure you, you stand very high on her
visiting list. But I hardly ever take her anywhere. She is always so
naughty with me." She chose another cigarette with the words. "She is
sure to be a pretty frequent visitor while Tommy Denvers is here. She
worships him."

"He is a nice boy," observed Mrs. Ralston. "I wish he could have got
longer leave. It would have comforted Stella to have him."

"I suppose she can go down to him at Kurrumpore if she doesn't mind
sacrificing that rose-leaf complexion," rejoined Mrs. Ermsted, shutting
her matchbox with a spiteful click. "You stayed down last hot weather."

"Gerald was not well and couldn't leave his post," said Mrs. Ralston.
"That was different. I felt he needed me."

"And so you nearly killed yourself to satisfy the need," commented Mrs.
Ermsted. "I sometimes think you are rather a fine woman, notwithstanding
appearances." She glanced at the watch on her wrist. "By Jove, how late
it is! Your latest _protegee_ will be here immediately. You must have
been aching to tell me to go for the last half-hour. You silly saint!
Why didn't you?"

"I have no wish for you to go, dear," responded Mrs. Ralston tranquilly.
"All my visitors are an honour to my house."

Mrs. Ermsted sprang to her feet with a swift, elastic movement. "Mary, I
love you!" she said. "You are a ministering angel, faithful friend, and
priceless counsellor, all combined. I laugh at you for a frump behind
your back, but when I am with you, I am spellbound with admiration. You
are r