"George Dorset?
Is there any one else?
I should like to know the worst, if you please." "Don't put it in that way, cousin Julia.

Lately Lily has been a good deal with the Dorsets, and he seems to admire her--but of course that's only natural.

And I'm sure there is no truth in the horrid things people say; but she HAS been spending a great deal of money this winter.

Evie Van Osburgh was at Celeste's ordering her trousseau the other day--yes, the marriage takes place next month--and she told me that Celeste showed her the most exquisite things she was just sending home to Lily.

And people say that Judy Trenor has quarrelled with her on account of Gus; but I'm sure I'm sorry I spoke, though I only meant it as a kindness." Mrs.Peniston's genuine incredulity enabled her to dismiss Miss Stepney with a disdain which boded ill for that lady's prospect of succeeding to the black brocade; but minds impenetrable to reason have generally some crack through which suspicion filters, and her visitor's insinuations did not glide off as easily as she had expected.