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 that can be uttered gracefully between persons who like to keep up forms, as we both do: so that if we understood each other it was enough. We shall understand each other now, as we have always done, and nothing will be changed, because there has always been something between us that couldn't be talked about.'

'Certainly, she is amazing—she is amazing,' I repeated; 'but so are you.' And then I asked her what she had said to my boy.

She seemed surprised. 'Hasn't he told you?'

'No, and he never will.'

'I am glad of that,' she said, simply.

'But I am not sure he won't come back. He didn't this morning, but he had already half a mind to.'

'That's your imagination,' said Mrs. Pallant, decisively. 'If you knew what I told him you would be sure.'

'And you won't let me know?'

'Never, my near friend.'

'And did he believe you?'

'Time will show; but I think so.'

'And how did you make it plausible to him that you should take so unnatural a course?'

For a moment she said nothing, only looking at me. Then at last—'I told him the truth.'

'The truth?' I repeated.

'Take him away—take him away!' she broke out. 'That's why I got rid of Linda, to tell you that you mustn't stay—you must leave Stresa tomorrow. This time it's you that must do it; I can't fly from you again—it costs too much!' And she smiled strangely.

'Don't be afraid; don't be afraid. We will leave