"I fear I have made a false step," she mused; "but it is now too late to retreat, and I will hope for the best.

He cannot mean to deceive me." Her meditations were interrupted by the entrance of Prudence, who came towards her with a face full of glee.

"My lord has informed me of the good news," she said.

"You are to be wedded to him to-day.

I have expected it all along, but it is somewhat sudden at last.