And we've talked enough of Louise for the present.' Miss Derrick's presentiment that a letter from Mr.Cobb would soon reach her was justified the next day; it arrived in the afternoon, readdressed from Tulse Hill.

Emmeline observed the eagerness with which this epistle was pounced upon and carried off for private perusal.

She saw, too, that in half-an-hour's time Louise left the house--doubtless to post a reply.

But, to her surprise, not a word of the matter escaped Miss Derrick during the whole evening.
In her school-days, Louise had learned to "play the piano," but, caring little or nothing for music, she had hardly touched a key for several years.

Now the idea possessed her that she must resume her practising, and to-day she had spent hours at the piano, with painful effect upon Mrs.Mumford's nerves.