CHAPTER XX.
WHEN Mrs.Loring went back to her chamber, after Mr.Dexter withdrew from the house, she found Jessie in bed, lying as still as if asleep.

She looked up when her aunt came to the bedside--at first with stealthy, half-timid glances--then with more of trust, that changed into loving confidence.

Mrs.Loring bent down and kissed her.
"Oh, Aunt Phoebe! that was very cruel in him." "What was cruel, dear ?" The thoughts of Mrs.Loring went farther back than to the interview in her parlor.
"He tried to ruin me even in your regard." "But he failed, Jessie.

I will not believe the lowest whisper of an evil report against you." "I am as pure in thought and as true in purpose, Aunt Phoebe, as when I went out from you.

I do not love Mr.Dexter--I never loved him.