I therefore have her authority with me in asking you either to write or telegraph to him again to-night, giving up the plan.

Better still if you would depute me to do it.

It is really a very foolish plan--if I may say so." "Why ?" "Because--well, there are certain things a girl of nineteen can't do without spoiling her chances in life--and one of them is to be seen about alone with a man like Lord Donald." "And again I ask--why ?" "I really can't discuss his misdoings with you, Helena.

Won't you trust me in the matter?
I thought I had made it plain that having been devoted to your mother, I was prepared to be equally devoted to you, and wished you to be as happy and free as possible." "That's an appeal to sentiment," said Helena, resolutely.

"Of course I know it all sounds horrid.