It was early, and, as on almost every morning, James was driving young Mrs. Walker to her appointment at the church. The sky still had the bluish hues of dawn, and the sun was beginning to rise; the streets were deserted.

James had noticed that, that morning, his young mistress was even sadder. Her dejected expression, dull eyes, and faint dark circles betrayed a sleepless night. Even so, she maintained her composed demeanor as she got into the car, greeting him with her usual politeness, thoug