HELEN MAKES A MISTAKE When Festing had changed his clothes he entered the small sitting-room with an effort at cheerfulness.

The room was unusually comfortable for a prairie homestead.

The floor was stained, rugs were spread on the polished boards, and Helen had drawn the curtains, which harmonized in color with the big easy chairs.

There were books in well-made cases, and two or three good pictures on the painted walls, while a tall brass lamp with a deep shade threw down a soft light.

Helen had put a meal on the table, and Festing sat down with a feeling that was half uneasiness and half content.
While he ate he glanced at his wife.