Why may I not see her ?" "For reasons which would be plain enough to any but a very thoughtless young gentleman.

I can say no more." Her caustic tone was not agreeable.

Elgar winced under it, and had much ado to restrain himself from useless vehemence.
"Do you intend to write to Mr.Mallard to-day ?" he asked.
"I will write to-day." Expostulation and entreaty seemed of no avail; Elgar recognized the situation, and with a grinding of his teeth kept down the horrible pain he suffered.

His only comfort was that Mallard would assuredly come post-haste; he would arrive by to-morrow evening.

But two days of this misery! Mrs.Lessingham was gratified with his look as he departed; she had supplied him with abundant matter for speculation, yet had fulfilled her promise to Cecily.
She finished her letter, then went to Cecily's room.