"I wasn't listening." This time the tone was almost brutal.

Mrs.Vanborough looked at her husband with unconcealed surprise and distress.
"John!" she said.

"What _can_ be the matter with you?
Are you in pain ?" "A man may be anxious and worried, I suppose, without being actually in pain." "I am sorry to hear you are worried.

Is it business ?" "Yes--business." "Consult Mr.Kendrew." "I am waiting to consult him." Mrs.Vanborough rose immediately.

"Ring, dear," she said, "when you want coffee." As she passed her husband she stopped and laid her hand tenderly on his forehead.