5/33 Barbara and Zillah showed constraint when he spoke with them, but this he affected not to perceive. Only with Madeline he did not converse. Her air of unconcernedness at length proved too much for his patience, and so it came about that Madeline received by post a letter addressed in Clifford's hand. She took it to her bedroom, and broke the envelope with agitation. Just when I am in deep distress, and need all possible encouragement in the grave struggle upon which I have entered--for I need not tell you that I am resolved to remain an artist--you desert me, and do your best to show that you are glad at being relieved of all concern on my account. |