He should perhaps not have an opportunity of speaking to her on the subject in time; he would write her a note, and carry it up to her room after the dressing-bell had rung.

No; that would agitate her, and unfit her for appearing at dinner, and passing the evening calmly.

He would defer it till bed-time.

After prayers, he contrived to lead her back to the drawing-room, and to put a letter in her hand.

She carried it up to her own room, wondering, and there read,-- 'Dear Caterina, Do not suspect for a moment that anything Sir Christopher may say to you about our marriage has been prompted by me.