The wilderness of leaden roofs turned suddenly before her eyes into a sullen furrowed sea of shame and crime which, awaiting no future day of judgment, daily gave up its awful dead.
Presently Hester came in, panting a little after the long ascent of worn stairs, and dragging with her a large parcel.

It was a fur-lined cloak.
Hester spread it mutely before her friend, and looked beseechingly at her.

Then she kissed her, and the two girls clung together for a moment in silence.
"Dearest," said Rachel, "don't give me new things.

It isn't that--you know I did take it when I was in need.

But, oh, Hester, I know you can't afford it.