When quiet was fully restored and Evelyn had once more found respite
in her heroine's increasing woes a familiar step sounded in the
passage.
"Come at last Hubert, I wish you had been here sooner."
Mrs. Arnold then gave an exaggerated account of her husband's
proceedings, and began sobbing wildly and hysterically.
Hubert Tracy did not like scenes, but he had to await Mrs. Arnold's
pleasure.
He had of late been trying to lead a better life and had given the
slip to several of his debauched companions, but on the previous
evening he had been unable to withstand their urgent entreaties and
as he wended his way to Mrs. Arnold's residence his aching brows and
dizzy head gave evidence of the sad fact.
"I have had news from home, Evelyn."
"Yes," said the latter faintly.
"Your father seems no better. Madge has little hopes of him, and
your mother's health has undergone a great shock."
"No, doubt," was the sarcastic reply.
"Evelyn," said the young man in earnest tones, "I shall eagerly
await the coming mail, for I have signified to Madge my intention to
cross the Atlantic!"
"So soon," cried Mrs. Arnold with awaking interest.
"Yes, Evelyn, I cannot endure this suspense much longer.
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