We knew for the last month that it must come before long, though there was a deceptive improvement just before the end.' 'Please to sit down, Mr Milvain.

Father went out not long ago, and I don't think he will be back very soon.' 'It was not really Mr Yule I wished to see,' said Jasper, frankly.

'If he had been at home I should have spoken with him about what I have in mind, but if you will kindly give me a few minutes it will be much better.' Marian glanced at the expiring fire.

Her curiosity as to what Milvain had to say was mingled with an anxious doubt whether it was not too late to put on fresh coals; already the room was growing very chill, and this appearance of inhospitality troubled her.
'Do you wish to save it ?' Jasper asked, understanding her look and movement.
'I'm afraid it has got too low.' 'I think not.

Life in lodgings has made me skilful at this kind of thing; let me try my hand.' He took the tongs and carefully disposed small pieces of coal upon the glow that remained.