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328 felt her grief was—not from love for him—at least, only the love of a friend, not a wife’s love.

[As if under some urgent compulsion from within]

I’ve never told you, but I’ve always felt, ever since I was a little kid, that she didn’t really love Dad. She liked him and respected him. She was a wonderful wife. But I’m sure she didn’t love him.

[Blurting it out as if he couldn’t help it]

I’ll tell you, Madeline! I’ve always felt she cared a lot for—Darrell.

[Hastily]

Of course, I might be wrong.

[Then bursting out]

No, I’m not wrong! I’ve felt it too strongly, ever since I was a kid. And then when I was eleven—something happened. I’ve been sure of it since then.

[Thinking in amazement, but not without a queer satisfaction]

Does he mean that she was unfaithful to his father? no, he’d never believe that but what else could he mean?

[Wonderingly]

Gordon! Do you mean you’ve been sure that your mother was—

[Outraged by something in her tone—jumping to his feet and flinging her hand off—roughly]

Was what? What do you mean, Madeline?