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GAIN three days elapsed; and Judith, returning from the double funeral of her father and sister, doffed her mourning for a gown less sombre and more suited to the atmosphere of a sick-room, then relieved the nurse in charge of Alan.

He remained as he had been ever since the falling of the thunderbolt—in absolute coma.

But he lived, and—or the physicians lied—must soon regain consciousness.

Kneeling by his bedside, Judith prayed long and earnestly.

When she arose, it was to answer a tap upon the door. She admitted Tom Barcus and suffered him to lead her into the recess of the window, where they spoke in guarded tones.

"I've come to tell you something," Barcus announced with characteristic awkwardness. "I've known it for three days—ever since the wedding, in fact—and kept it to myself, not knowing whether I ought to tell you yet or not."

He paused, eying her uncertainly, unhappily. 280