herself or her wishes or her feelings, put him on a level at which
she had to look up to him. The first step in the ladder of pre-
eminence had been achieved when she realised that he was not on her
level; the second when she experienced rather than thought that he
had more influence on her than she had on him. Here again was a
little morsel of hero worship, which, though based on a misconception
of fact, was still of influence. In that episode of the crypt she
had always believed that it was Leonard who had carried her out and
laid her on the church floor in light and safety. He had been strong
enough and resolute enough to do this, whilst she had fainted!
Harold's generous forbearance had really worked to a false end.

It was not strange, therefore, that she found occasional
companionship with the handsome, wilful, domineering boy somewhat of
luxury. She did not see him often enough to get tired of him; to
find out the weakness of his character; to realise his deep-seated,
remorseless selfishness. But after all he was only an episode in a
young life which was full of interests. Term after term came and
went; the holidays had their seasonable pleasures, occasionally
shared in common. That was all.

Harold's attitude was the same as ever. He was of a constant nature;
and now that manhood was within hail the love of his boyhood was
ripening to a man's love. That was all. He was with regard to
Stephen the same devoted, worshipping protector, without thought of
self; without hope of reward. Whatever Stephen wished Harold did;
and Stephen, knowing their old wishes and their old pleasures, was
content with their renewal. Each holiday between the terms became
mainly a repetition of the days of the old life. They lived in the
past.