Whatever `` it '' was , the fact of its being settled did not seem to bring Alexina any great peace of mind -- nor Stephen either , judging from his face , which wore a sort of `` suffer and be strong '' expression just then . `` When do you go ? '' said Alexina , after a pause , during which she had frowned out of the window and across the Tracy yard . Josephine Tracy and her brother Duncan were strolling about the yard in the pleasant December sunshine , arm in arm , laughing and talking . They appeared to be a nice , harmless pair of people , but the sight of them did not seem to please Alexina . `` Just as soon as we can sell the furniture and move away , '' said Stephen moodily . `` Heigh-ho ! So this is what all our fine ambitions have come to , Lexy , your music and my M.D. . A place in a department store for you , and one in a lumber mill for me . '' `` I do n't dare to complain , '' said Alexina slowly . `` We ought to be so thankful to get the positions . I am thankful . And I do n't mind so very much about my music . But I do wish you could have gone to college , Stephen . '' `` Never mind me , '' said Stephen , brightening up determinedly . `` I 'm going to go into the lumber business enthusiastically . You do n't know what unsuspected talents I may develop along that line . The worst of it is that we ca n't be together . But I 'll keep my eyes open , and perhaps I 'll find a place for you in Lessing . '' Alexina said nothing .
Her separation from Stephen was the one point XXXXX their fortunes she could not bear to discuss .
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