Then, as he turned to John, she understood that between his trained belief in the usefulness of inexorable discipline and an almost womanly tenderness of affection the heart had somehow won.

She knew him well and at times read with ease the signs of distress and annoyance or resolute decision.

Usually he was gay and merry at breakfast, chaffing the children and eating with the appetite of a man who was using and renewing his tissues in a wholesome way.

Now he was silent, absent, and ate little.

He was the victim of a combination of annoyances.