It is the question whether it is the best thing for Gertrude." "What is better--what is better, dear uncle ?" Felix rejoined urgently, rising in his urgency and standing before Mr.Wentworth.His uncle had been looking at his knee; but when Felix moved he transferred his gaze to the handle of the door which faced him.

"It is usually a fairly good thing for a girl to marry the man she loves!" cried Felix.
While he spoke, Mr.Wentworth saw the handle of the door begin to turn; the door opened and remained slightly ajar, until Felix had delivered himself of the cheerful axiom just quoted.

Then it opened altogether and Gertrude stood there.

She looked excited; there was a spark in her sweet, dull eyes.

She came in slowly, but with an air of resolution, and, closing the door softly, looked round at the three persons present.
Felix went to her with tender gallantry, holding out his hand, and Charlotte made a place for her on the sofa.