Lilian settled herself in a chair by the fireside, and addressed herself with a serious countenance to the study of the freshly-printed columns.

Beginning with the leading-article, she read page after page in the most conscientious way, often pausing to reflect, and once even to pencil a note on the margin.

The paper finished, she found it necessary for the clear understanding of a certain subject to consult a book of reference, and for this purpose she went to a room in the rear--a small study, comfortably but plainly furnished, smelling of tobacco.

It was very chilly, and she did not spend much time over her researches.
A sound from the lower part of the house checked her returning steps; some one was rapping at the door down in the area.

It happened that she was to-day without a servant; she must needs descend into the kitchen herself and answer the summons.