noticing that there was something pleasant about his smile. "It
feels uncommonly queer to have enough cash to pay one's bills. I'd
have sold my soul for it a few years ago!"

Waythorn winced at the allusion. He had heard it rumored that a lack
of funds had been one of the determining causes of the Varick
separation, but it did not occur to him that Varick's words were
intentional. It seemed more likely that the desire to keep clear of
embarrassing topics had fatally drawn him into one. Waythorn did not
wish to be outdone in civility.

"We'll do the best we can for you," he said. "I think this is a good
thing you're in."

"Oh, I'm sure it's immense. It's awfully good of you--" Varick broke
off, embarrassed. "I suppose the thing's settled now--but if--"

"If anything happens before Sellers is about, I'll see you again,"
said Waythorn quietly. He was glad, in the end, to appear the more
self-possessed of the two.

The course of Lily's illness ran smooth, and as the days passed
Waythorn grew used to the idea of Haskett's weekly visit. The first
time the day came round, he stayed out late, and questioned his wife
as to the visit on his return. She replied at once that Haskett had
merely seen the nurse downstairs, as the doctor did not wish any one
in the child's sick-room till after the crisis.

The following week Waythorn was again conscious of the recurrence of
the day, but had forgotten it by the time he came home to dinner.