"I am quite willing to take it," she said.

"Still, you can understand--" "Yes," said Winston.

"It puts a strain upon your faith, but some day I may be able to make a good deal that puzzles you quite clear." Maud Barrington glanced at the flask.

"I wonder if that is connected with the explanation, but I will wait.

Now, you have not lighted your cigar." Winston understood that the topic was dismissed, and sat thoughtfully still while the girl nestled against the birch logs close beside him under the same furs, for the wind went through the building and the cold was unbearable a few feet from the stove.