She glanced at him, as he sat frowning into the fire, but he did not notice her.
"Something troubles you, Gifford." He started.

"Yes," he said.

He changed his position, leaning his elbows on his knees, and propping his chin on his fists, and still scowling at the fire.

"Yes, I came to speak to you about it." "I wish you would," Helen answered.

But Gifford found it difficult to begin.
"I've had a letter from aunt Ruth to-day," he said at last, "and it has bothered me.