Page:Conflict (1927).pdf/104

 Suddenly Sidney heard John's step on the stairs. He stood still just where he was in the middle of the room, staring at the door through which John would enter. John was smiling! Well, he might be smiling just to be kind, even if

John came up to him close.

'It's all right, Sid,' he said quietly.

'What did you say?'

'I said it's all right. Sheilah is all right. Your fears are groundless.'

Sidney looked at John searchingly. 'How do you know it's all right, John?'

John replied, smiling, 'Because it's my business to know, Sid.'

'And you do know?'

'I know.'

Sidney accepted it at last. He sank down in a chair near by. 'Thanks,' he said weakly, 'thanks.' He groped for John Sheldon's hand, got hold of it, squeezed it. 'Thanks, John.'

'Nonsense, Sid,' said John, and got his hand away.

'I guess I've been rather of a fool,' murmured Sidney.

'Well, rather,' agreed John Sheldon. 'Haven't had your clothes off, have you, Sid?'

Sidney shook his head. Good heavens, he hoped he wasn't going to break down. John probably saw