My friend did not introduce her, but said, turning to the girl a few moments after I came in: "'Go up to the nursery, Ethel, and wait until I am disengaged!' "As the girl left the room I asked, 'Who is that young lady ?' remarking at the same time that there was something peculiarly interesting about her.
"'It's a sad case, remarked my friend, her voice falling to a tone of regret and sympathy.

'And I wish I knew just what to do about it.' "'Who is the young girl ?' I asked repeating my question.
"'The daughter of a Mr.Ridley,' she replied." Mrs.Birtwell gave a little start, while an expression of pain crossed her face.

The lady did not look at her, but she felt the change her mention of Mr.Ridley had produced.
"'What of him ?' I asked; not having heard the name before.
"'Oh, I thought you knew about him.

He's a lawyer, formerly a member of Congress, and a man of brilliant talents.

He distinguished himself at Washington, and for a time attracted much attention there for his ability as well as for his fine personal qualities.