And what did you see, Lily--I know you'll tell me truly--when you came into the parlour, as I stood by the window ?' 'I saw, I think, the form of a man in a cloak and hat, as I believe, talking with you in whispers, Gertrude, from without.' 'The form of a man, Lily--you're right--not a man, but the form of a man,' she continued, bitterly; 'for it seems to me sometimes it can be no human fascination that has brought me under the tyranny in which I can scarce be said to breathe.' After an interval she said-- 'It will seem incredible.

You've heard of Mr.Dangerfield's proposal, and you've heard how I've received it.

Well, listen.' 'Gertrude, dear!' said Lily, who was growing frightened.
'I'm going,' interrupted Miss Chattesworth, 'to tell you my strange, if you will, but not guilty--no, _not_ guilty--secret.

I'm no agent now, but simply passive in the matter.

But you must first pledge me your sacred word that neither to my father nor to yours, nor to my aunt, nor to any living being, will you ever reveal what I am about to tell you, till I have released you from your promise.' Did ever woman refuse a secret?
Well, Lily wavered for a moment.