And now I must get to work, for the light is so very short on these winter days." That night Robert McIntyre had gone to bed, and was dozing off when a hand plucked at his shoulder, and he started up to find his sister in some white drapery, with a shawl thrown over her shoulders, standing beside him in the moonlight.
"Robert, dear," she whispered, stooping over him, "there was something I wanted to ask you, but papa was always in the way.

You will do something to please me, won't you, Robert ?" "Of course, Laura.

What is it ?" "I do so hate having my affairs talked over, dear.

If Mr.Raffles Haw says anything to you about me, or asks any questions, please don't say anything about Hector.

You won't, will you, Robert, for the sake of your little sister ?" "No; not unless you wish it." "There is a dear good brother." She stooped over him and kissed him tenderly.
It was a rare thing for Laura to show any emotion, and her brother marvelled sleepily over it until he relapsed into his interrupted doze..