She shrank from the next meeting with Arnold Jacks, which could not long be postponed.

It took place three days after her return, when Arnold and Mrs.Jacks dined in Bryanston Square.

John Jacks was to have come, but excused himself on the plea of indisposition.

As might have been expected of him, Arnold was absolute discretion; he looked and spoke, perhaps, a trifle more gaily than usual, but to Irene showed no change of demeanour, and conversed with her no more than was necessary.

Irene felt grateful, and once more tried to convince herself that she had done nothing irreparable.