The day was again fine; she dressed with nervous speed--there was no Lyddy to do her hair, for the very first time in her life--then went softly forth on to the landing.

No one seemed to be stirring; she had no watch to tell her the time, but doubtless it was very early.

Softly she began to descend the stairs, and at length recognised the door of the drawing-room.

She did not like to enter: it was only Mrs.Ormonde's kindness that had given her a right to sit there the evening before.

But the house-door would not be open yet, she feared.