'Don't despair; don't attempt to speak to her again till to-morrow morning.

Her head is now full of Lady St.James's party.

When it is emptied of that, you will have a better chance.

Never despair.' 'Never, while you encourage me to hope--that any good can be done.' Lady Clonbrony was particularly glad that she had carried her point about this party at Lady St.James's; because, from the first private intimation that the Duchess of Torcaster was to be there, her ladyship flattered herself that the long-desired introduction might then be accomplished.

But of this hope Lady St.James had likewise received intimation from the double-dealing Miss Pratt; and a warning note was despatched to the duchess to let her grace know that circumstances had occurred which had rendered it impossible not to ask THE CLONBRONIES.
An excuse, of course, for not going to this party was sent by the duchess--her grace did not like large parties--she would have the pleasure of accepting Lady St.James's invitation for her select party on Wednesday the 10th.