To be loved, was an element of her existence--to be loved with expression.

But, expressive fondness was not one of the cold, dignified Mr.Leslie's weaknesses.

He loved Madeline--as much as he was capable of loving anything out of himself.

And he had given her the highest possible evidence of this love, by making her his wife .-- What more could she ask?
It never occurred to his unsentimental thought, that words and acts of endearment were absolutely essential to her happiness.

That her world of interest was a world of affections, and that without his companionship in this world, her heart would feel an aching void.
Who will wonder that, as weeks and months went by, shadows were more apparent on the sunny face of Madeline?
Yet, such shadows, when they became visible to casual eyes, did excite wonder.