CHAPTER XXVIII.
THE LADY'S MAID.
Miss HALL and Freda were sitting alone in the morning-room that has before been alluded to.

The former was much more nervous than Freda had ever seen her.

First she took up her work, then her book, then she began to copy some music.

Freda had great pleasure in watching her, and in remarking that the calm Serena could be excited by the expected appearance of a lover of twenty years ago; also in observing that she had a most becoming colour on her cheeks, and looked quite young; also that she was dressed even with more care than usual, and her hair was smooth as brush could make it.

Freda longed to laugh at her, but she forbore; she felt that there was something very touching in this meeting between two people who had parted under such uncomfortable circumstances so many years ago.
When the door bell rang Freda rose to leave the room.
'If you please, Freda, remain where you are, I would very much rather.' Freda resumed her seat, and shortly after Mr Jones was announced.
'Quite an old man; twice as old as Nita,' was Freda's first thought as she looked at him.
Miss Hall rose and advanced to meet Mr Jones.