"Yes," he said gently, "but, William, my dear old friend, I am anxious still.

I cannot help--I cannot help fearing that--that"-- "Stay," interrupted Mr.Denner, with a visible effort at composure, "I--I quite understand.

Pray spare yourself the pain of speaking of it, Archibald.

You are very kind, but--I quite understand." He put his hand before his eyes a moment, and then blindly stretched it out to his friend.

The rector took it, and held it hard in his own.