And did you know that Ronald and Julian had been smoking again on the way back from school?
They look so dreadfully ill, both of them.

I know their father will find out." Mrs.Lorimer's whispered words went into soft weeping.

She hid her face in the cushion.
A curious little spasm went through Avery, and for a few mad seconds she wanted to burst into heartless laughter.

She conquered the impulse with a desperate effort though it left her feeling slightly hysterical.
She moved across to the forlorn little woman and stooped over her.
"Don't cry, dear Mrs.Lorimer!" she urged.

"It doesn't do any good.