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marry me. Vera couldn’t go on with the case after that. There wouldn’t be the least likelihood of her getting a decree if she did. She’d only succeed in making a fool of herself, and losing every friend she’s got.”

And with Waring married the whole object of the diverce would vanish. Ann saw that clearly. However jealous and revengeful Vera might feel, she would recognize the fact that she could gain nothing but social ostracism from bringing the case. As the wife of one of the wealthiest sheep-farmers in the district, Ann’s position would be very different to that of a friendless, unknown girl.

“I feel more than a little . . . grateful to you for that,” said Ann. “It makes me like you better than I’ve ever done before. But I’m sorry—I can’t marry you.”

“I’m utterly—unattractive to you then?”

“No you’re not. Oh, it’s terribly difficult to explain. I can’t help being attracted to you—in a way. And yet I know that marriage should mean more than that. There should be some deeper sympathy and affection. I haven’t got that for you. Please don’t let us discuss it.”

“Very well, we won’t talk about it any more for the present. Have another cup of tea? Do you mind if I smoke?”

She was glad that he could resume a lighter tone, and after a moment, when he began to chaff her about her business, Ann felt herself on safer ground.

“They’ve asked me to play in the Wairiri polo team at the tournament in Hawkeston at the end of next week,” said Waring later.

“Are you going to?”