The thought had crossed my mind that she might not return at all, but remain away with her friends.

Some fear of this kind had been in Mr.Packard's mind and naturally found lodgment in mine.

I was therefore much relieved when, sharp on the stroke of midnight, I heard the front door-bell ring, followed by the sound of her voice speaking to the old butler.

I thought its tone more cheerful than before she went out.

At all events, her face had a natural look when, after a few minutes' delay, she came upstairs and stepped into the nursery--a room on the same floor as mine, but nearer the stair-head.
From what impulse did I put out my light?
I think now, on looking back, that I hoped to catch a better glimpse of her face when she came out again, and so be in a position to judge whether her anxiety or secret distress was in any special way connected with her child.