We may be as fond of each other as we like; but we mustn't cry.
God bless you! Go away--go away!" She turned aside quickly; her own eyes were moistening, and it was part of her character to be reluctant to let Isabel see it.

"Why have I made a fool of myself ?" she wondered, as she approached the drawing-room door.

"It doesn't matter.

I am all the better for it.

Odd, that Mr.
Hardyman should have made me feel fonder of Isabel than ever!" With those reflections she re-entered the drawing-room--and suddenly checked herself with a start.