Then Clara looked at her, feeling that if she abstained from doing so, the very fact of her so abstaining would be remarkable.

There was the look of pain on Mrs.Askerton's brow, and her cheeks were still pale, but she smiled as she went on speaking.

"I'm sure I'm flattered, for I remember that they were both considered beauties.

Did he know anything more of her ?" "No; nothing more." "There must have been some casual likeness I suppose." Mrs.Askerton was a clever woman, and had by this time almost recovered her self-possession.

Then there came a ring at the front door, and in another minute Mr.Belton was in the room.