With Lilian, to understand a sorrow was to ask herself what she could do for its assuagement.

A thought of characteristic generosity came to her.

Why should she not (some day or other, when their friendship was mature) offer Mrs.Wade the money, her own property, which would henceforth be lying idle?
There would be practical difficulties in the way, but surely they might be overcome.
The idea brought a smile to her face.

Yes; she would think of this.

She would presently talk of it with Denzil.
"Come now," said Mrs.Wade, rousing herself from meditation, "let us talk about the Irish question." Lilian addressed herself conscientiously to the subject, but it did not really interest her; she had no personal knowledge of Irish hardships, and was wearied by the endless Parliamentary debate.