Her mother stood at the window, seemingly regarding the sky, in reality occupying her thoughts with things much nearer.

She turned and found Adela looking at her.
'I want just to run over and speak to Letty,' Adela said.

'I shall very soon be back.' 'Very well, dear,' replied her mother, scanning her face absently.

'But don't let them keep you.' Adela quickly fetched her hat and left the house.

It was her habit to walk at a good pace, always with the same airy movement, as though her feet only in appearance pressed the ground.