Then Vjera's low-spoken word of thanks and her light tread made him aware that she had received her little gratuity; he stood politely aside while she passed out, and then went down the half-dozen steps with her.

As they began to move up the street, he did not offer her his arm again.
"You are so kind, so kind to me," said poor Vjera.

"How can I ever thank you!" "Between you and me there is no question of thanks," answered her companion.

"Or if there is to be such a question it should arise in another way.

It is for me to thank you." "For what ?" "For many things, all of which have proceeded from your kindness of heart and have resulted in making my life bearable during the past months--or years.