He found her sitting in a great arm-chair at one end of the empty billiard-room.

She did not rise to meet him.

He thought she looked tired out and frightened.
He went to her and stooped over her, taking her hands.

She did not resist him, but neither did she welcome.

Her lips were quivering painfully.
"What have I done that you should run away from me ?" Merefleet asked her very gently.
She shook her head with a helpless gesture.
"Mr.Merefleet," she whispered, "try--try not to be cross any! I'm afraid I've made a big mistake." "My dear, we all make them," Merefleet said with grave kindliness.
"I know," she faltered.