Is she not fascinating?
She is greatly pleased with you three--you have made a most proper impression; and you are to go to spend the day at Shortlands to-morrow.

Now, my loves, tell me what arrangements she has come to--I am so _deeply_ interested, my poor darlings." Miss Martineau, as she spoke, kept her eyes fixed on Primrose; but that young lady only gave her a puzzled look, and, after a short pause, said quietly-- "I don't understand you.

We have made no special arrangements.

Mrs.
Ellsworthy was friendly, and she asked us to come and see her at Shortlands; and we are going.

Miss Martineau, I am so very busy this afternoon; will you forgive me if I run away ?" Primrose left the room, and Miss Martineau, turning to Jasmine, clasped her hands in some excitement.
"Oh, my dear!" she exclaimed, "I do hope Primrose won't spoil everything by those little proud airs of hers; they really are--yes, I am grieved to be obliged to say it--but they really are affected.