Jude the Obsure

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.