But the twenty-second came and departed without a word from the absent one.

So did the twenty-third.

By this time Hartley had grown very calm, self-adjusted and resolute.

He had gone over and over again the history of their lives since marriage bound them together, and in this history he could see nothing hopeful as bearing on the future.

He was never certain of Irene.
Things said and done in moments of thoughtlessness or excitement, and not meant to hurt or offend, were constantly disturbing their peace.