Sue did not for a moment, either now or later, suspect what troubles
had resulted to him from letting her go; it never once seemed to
cross her mind, and she had received no news whatever from Shaston.
They talked on slight and ephemeral subjects, and when his tea was
brought up he told the amazed little servant that a cup was to be set
for Sue. That young person was much more interested in their history
than they supposed, and as she descended the stairs she lifted her
eyes and hands in grotesque amazement. While they sipped Sue went
to the window and thoughtfully said, "It is such a beautiful sunset,
Richard."
"They are mostly beautiful from here, owing to the rays crossing the
mist of the vale. But I lose them all, as they don't shine into this
gloomy corner where I lie."
"Wouldn't you like to see this particular one? It is like heaven
opened."
"Ah yes! But I can't."
"I'll help you to."
"No--the bedstead can't be shifted."
"But see how I mean."
She went to where a swing-glass stood, and taking it in her hands
carried it to a spot by the window where it could catch the sunshine,
moving the glass till the beams were reflected into Phillotson's
face.
"There--you can see the great red sun now!" she said. "And I am
sure it will cheer you--I do so hope it will!" She spoke with a
childlike, repentant kindness, as if she could not do too much for
him.
Phillotson smiled sadly. "You are an odd creature!" he murmured as
the sun glowed in his eyes. "The idea of your coming to see me after
what has passed!"
"Don't let us go back upon that!" she said quickly. "I have to catch
the omnibus for the train, as Jude doesn't know I have come; he was
out when I started; so I must return home almost directly. Richard,
I am so very glad you are better. You don't hate me, do you? You
have been such a kind friend to me!"
"I am glad to know you think so," said Phillotson huskily. "No.
I don't hate you!"
It grew dusk quickly in the gloomy room during their intermittent
chat, and when candles were brought and it was time to leave she put
her hand in his or rather allowed it to flit through his; for she was
significantly light in touch. She had nearly closed the door when he
said, "Sue!" He had noticed that, in turning away from him, tears
were on her face and a quiver in her lip.