Lady Lydiard had not the slightest intention of taking Mr.
Hardyman into her confidence on the subject of her domestic affairs.
With regard to the proposed marriage, Lady Lydiard casts no doubt on Miss Pink's perfect sincerity and good faith; but, at the same time, she positively declines to believe that Mr.Hardyman means to make Miss Isabel Miller his wife.

Lady L.will yield to the evidence of a properly-attested certificate--and to nothing else." A folded piece of paper, directed to Isabel, dropped out of this characteristic letter as Miss Pink turned from the first page to the second.

Lady Lydiard addressed her adopted daughter in these words: "I was on the point of leaving home to visit you again, when I received your aunt's letter.

My poor deluded child, no words can tell how distressed I am about you.

You are already sacrificed to the folly of the most foolish woman living.