Aside from the fact that they must be of good family, they will be taken solely on account of their beauty, the most beautiful to win." Frances dropped her knife and fork and sprang to her feet, exclaiming:-- "I'm going to see the duchess! Thank you, cousin Ned! I'll be a maid of honor!" "Of course--beauty!" observed Sarah, resuming her supper with a dry laugh.
"Your sister can win on the terms offered, if anyone can," said I, turning sharply on Sarah.
"I am sure of it," returned Sarah.

"I laughed only because _she_ is so sure." Frances then turned to her sister, not reproachfully but earnestly: "Sure ?" she exclaimed.

"Of course I am sure.

I know myself.

You have a far better mind than mine, but I have--well, I know what I have.