But that is nothing! What really matters is, that I should have entered into such a wager with you or anyone.

That is a debt I shall never be able to repay--Lady Rylton." His tone is bitterly self-condemnatory, but Marian has scarcely caught that.

The "Lady Rylton" has struck upon her ears, and hurt her to her heart's core! Oh, that she could destroy--blot out that small usurper! "You have regained your courage?
Come, then," says she, in a low tone that is full of a strange mirth.
He follows her along the grassy path--a path noiseless--until presently, having skirted a few low bushes, he finds himself, with Marian beside him, at the southern side of the arbour.
Marian, laying her hand silently upon his arm, points through the evergreens that veil the seat within; a mocking, triumphant smile is on her lips.
There is no need for any indication on her part, however--Rylton can see for himself.

On the low, rustic seat within the arbour is Tita--with Hescott beside her.

The two young heads are close together.