CHAPTER V.
THE BURSTING OF THE STORM.
_MR.

DELANCY_ was sitting in his library on the afternoon of the fourth day since the wedding-party left Ivy Cliff, when the entrance of some one caused him to turn toward the door.
"Irene!" he exclaimed, in a tone of anxiety and alarm, as he started to his feet; for his daughter stood before him.

Her face was pale, her eyes fixed and sad, her dress in disorder.
"Irene, in Heaven's name, what has happened ?" "The worst," she answered, in a low, hoarse voice, not moving from the spot where she first stood still.
"Speak plainly, my child.

I cannot bear suspense." "I have left my husband and returned to you!" was the firmly uttered reply.
"Oh, folly! oh, madness! What evil counselor has prevailed with you, my unhappy child ?" said Mr.Delancy, in a voice of anguish.
"I have counseled with no one but myself." "Never a wise counselor--never a wise counselor! But why, why have you taken this desperate step ?" "In self-protection," replied Irene.
"Sit down, my child.

There!" and he led her to a seat.