Sylvia waited, her very soul straining, although shrinking at the same time, to hear.
"I've been thinking lately," said Richard again, "that--maybe--it would be wise for--us both to--make some different arrangement." Sylvia bent her head low.

Richard paused for the second time.

"I have always meant--" he began again, but just then the clock in the kitchen struck the first stroke of ten.

Richard caught his breath and arose quickly.

Never in his long courtship had he remained as late as that at Sylvia Crane's.