At the same time, it was plain that her life was withered.

She could make one great effort; but, according to my informant, she had no energy left for anything else--not even to take interest in her little girl--" Aldous made a movement.
"Suppose we talk about her ?" he said rather shortly.
Lord Maxwell started and recollected himself.

After a pause he said, looking down under his spectacles at his grandson with an expression in which discomfort strove with humour-- "I see.

You think we are beating about the bush.

Perhaps we are.