Billy's avoidance of Cyril was the more easily accomplished because she
was for a time taking a complete rest from her music. The new songs
had been finished and sent to the publishers. There was no excuse,
therefore, for Cyril's coming to the house on that score; and, indeed,
he seemed of his own accord to be making only infrequent visits now.
Billy was pleased, particularly as Marie was not there to play third
party. Marie had taken up her teaching again, much to Billy's distress.
"But I can't stay here always, like this," Marie had protested.
"But I should like to keep you!" Billy had responded, with no less
decision.
Marie had been firm, however, and had gone, leaving the little house
lonely without her.
Aside from her work in the garden Billy as resolutely avoided Bertram as
she did Cyril. It was natural, therefore, that at this crisis she should
turn to William with a peculiar feeling of restfulness. He, at least,
would be safe, she told herself. So she frankly welcomed his every
appearance, sung to him, played to him, and took long walks with him
to see some wonderful bracelet or necklace that he had discovered in a
dingy little curio-shop.
William was delighted. He was very fond of his namesake, and he had
secretly chafed a little at the way his younger brothers had monopolized
her attention.
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