"I need not assure you, Mrs. Challoner, that this is a very painful
duty."
Mrs. Challoner moistened her lips and held herself together with great
effort.
"Please don't apologise," she said gently, "I understand. It may be
easier for me to have some one whom I've met."
Murgatroyd bowed; and placing a chair for Mrs. Challoner, begged her to
be seated.
"If you don't mind, Miriam," spoke up Shirley, "I'll leave you now, but
if you need me--call me."