"I am quite sure, Roland, that I enjoy dancing far better now than I did before I was married.

I should like dancing parties a little oftener; they are much more amusing than your solemn dinner parties." But, ah me! the dancing feet were soon to be stilled; all the rest of that summer there was something mysterious--every one was so solicitous about my mother--they seemed to think of nothing but her health.

She was gay and charming herself, laughing at the fuss, anxiety and care.

Sir Roland was devoted to her; he never left her.

She took no more rides now on her favorite Sir Tristam, my father drove her carefully in the carriage; there were no more balls or parties; "extreme quiet and repose" seemed to be the keynote.