Hillyard resumed his seat uncomfortably.
"You may meet your friend Harry Luttrell in the Sudan," she explained.
"He is stationed somewhere in that country--where exactly I would give a great deal to know." They sat without speaking for a little while, Stella once more turning to the fire.

Hillyard watching her wistful face and the droop of her shoulders understood at last the truth of Hardiman's description.

The mask was lain aside.

Here indeed was a Lady of Sorrows.
Stella Croyle was silent until she was quite sure that she had once more the mastery of her voice.

It was important to her that her next words should not be forgotten.