"I see."

 

She looked at her hands, then up at my face.

 

"Mr Stevens, I'm very sorry," she said. Then she added: "I wish there was

something I could say."

 

"There's no need, Miss Kenton."

 

"Dr Meredith has not yet arrived." Then for a moment she bowed her head and a

sob escaped .her. But almost immediately, she resumed her composure and asked in

a steady voice: "Will you come up and see him?"

 

"I'm very busy just now, Miss Kenton. In a little while perhaps."

 

"In that case, Mr Stevens, will you permit me to close his eyes?"

 

"I would be most grateful if you would, Miss Kenton."

 

She began to climb the staircase, but I stopped her, saying: "Miss Kenton,

please don't think me unduly improper in not ascending to see my father in his

deceased condition just at this moment. You see, I know my father would have

wished me to carryon just now."

 

"Of course, Mr Stevens."