And thus the promise was exacted and given.
"If I find you deceiving me, Clara," said the countess, "I will never forgive you." Hitherto, Lady Desmond may probably have played her part well;--well, considering her object.

But she played it very badly in showing that she thought it possible that her daughter should play her false.

It was now Clara's turn to be proud and indignant.
"Mamma!" she said, holding her head high, and looking at her mother boldly through her tears, "I have never deceived you yet." "Very well, my dear.

I will take steps to prevent his intruding on you any further.

There may be an end of the matter now.