She saw at a glance he was gone courting; her knees gave way under her, and, such is the power of the mind, this stalwart girl lay weak as water on the sofa, and had not the power to go home, though just then she had but one wish, one hope--to see her idol's face no more, nor hear his wheedling tongue, that had ruined her peace.
The exquisite Mr.Falcon was received by Rosa Lusignan with a certain tremor that flattered his hopes.

He told her, in charming language, how he had admired her at first sight, then esteemed her, then loved her.
She blushed and panted, and showed more than once a desire to interrupt him, but was too polite.

She heard him out with rising dismay, and he offered her his hand and heart.
But by this time she had made up her mind what to say.

"O Mr.Falcon!" she cried, "how can you speak to me in this way?
Why, I am engaged.
Didn't you know ?" "No; I am sure you are not, or you would never have given me the encouragement you have." "Oh, all engaged young ladies flirt--a little; and everybody here knows I am engaged to Dr.Staines." "Why, I never saw him here." Rosa's tact was a quality that came and went; so she blushed, and faltered out, "We had a little tiff, as lovers will." "And you did me the honor to select me as cat's-paw to bring him on again.

Was not that rather heartless ?" Rosa's fitful tact returned to her.
"Oh, sir, do not think so ill of me.