God knows I ask nothing for myself but rest and oblivion by your side." Half an hour later, Paul stood at the hall door.

It was ajar, for the family had returned unexpectedly, as was evident from the open doors and empty halls.

Entering unseen, he ascended to the room my lady usually occupied.

The fire burned low, Lillian's chair was empty, and my lady lay asleep, as if lulled by the sighing winds without and the deep silence that reigned within.

Paul stood regarding her with a great pity softening his face as he marked the sunken eyes, pallid cheeks, locks too early gray, and restless lips muttering in dreams.
"I wish I could spare her this," he sighed, stooping to wake her with a word.