I assure you I mean to make the best of my improved looks, as I don't believe they will last.

I dare say I shall be the 'sick nun' that you termed me again to-morrow." "I hope not, dearest," said my friend kindly, returning my caress and forgetting her momentary ill-humour.

"A jolly dance will do you good if you are careful to avoid over-exertion.

But you are quite right, we must really fix our things ready for the evening, else we shall be all in a flurry at the last moment, and nothing riles the Colonel so much as to see women in a fuss.

I shall wear my lace dress; but it wants seeing to.