Emmeline, her back turned, stood before the fireplace, as if considering some new plan of decoration; she did not hear the girl's light step.
Whitewashers and paperhangers had done their work; a new carpet was laid down; but pictures had still to be restored to their places, and the furniture stood all together in the middle of the room.

Not till Louise had entered did her hostess look round.
'Mrs.Mumford, I want to say good-bye.' 'Oh, yes,' Emmeline answered civilly, but without a smile.
'Good-bye, Miss Derrick.' And she stepped forward to shake hands.
'Don't be afraid,' said the girl, looking into her face good-humouredly.

'You shall never see me again unless you wish to.' 'I'm sure I wish you all happiness,' was the embarrassed reply.
'And--I shall be glad to hear of your marriage.' 'I'll write to you about it.

But you won't talk--unkindly about me when I've gone--you and Mr.Mumford ?' 'No, no; indeed we shall not.' Louise tried to say something else, but without success.

She pressed Emmeline's hand, turned quickly, and disappeared.