But then suddenly stooping down, and kissing her, she said: 'No, Gertrude, darling--you'll not be vexed with me--but you must not tell me your secret.

You have excuses such as I should not have--you've been drawn into this concealment, step by step, unwillingly; but, Gertrude, darling, I must not hear it.

I could not look Aunt Becky in the face, nor the kind general, knowing that I was----' She tried to find a word.
'_Deceiving_ them, Lily,' said Gertrude, with a moan.
'Yes, Gertrude, darling.' And she kissed her again.

'And it might be to your great hurt.

But I thank you all the same from my heart for your confidence and love; and I'm gladder than you'll ever know, Gerty, that they are still the same.' And thus the two girls kissed silently and fervently, and poor Gertrude Chattesworth wept uncomplainingly, looking out upon the dark prospect.
'And you'll tell me, darling, when you're happier, as you soon will be ?' said Lily.
'I will--I will indeed.