CHAPTER IX.
NEW EMBARRASSMENTS.
Mrs.Willoughby had been spending a few days with a friend whom she had found in Naples, and on her return was greatly shocked to hear of Minnie's adventure on Vesuvius.

Lady Dalrymple and Ethel had a story to tell which needed no exaggerations and amplifications to agitate her strongly.

Minnie was not present during the recital; so, after hearing it, Mrs.Willoughby went to her room.
Here she caught Minnie in her arms, and kissed her in a very effusive manner.
"Oh, Minnie, my poor darling, what is all this about Vesuvius?
Is it true?
It is terrible.

And now I will never dare to leave you again.
How could I think that you would be in any danger with Lady Dalrymple and Ethel?
As to Ethel, I am astonished.

She is always so grave and so sad that she is the very last person I would have supposed capable of leading you into danger." "Now, Kitty dearest, that's not true," said Minnie; "she didn't lead me at all.