Everything is badly managed here since my father took away the best servants to Hymettus." She moved with affected carelessness towards the door, when Mrs.Horncastle, without rising from her seat, said:-- "Why not stay here ?" Mrs.Barker brightened for a moment.

"Oh," she said, with polite deprecation, "I couldn't think of turning you out." "I don't intend you shall," said Mrs.Horncastle.

"We will stay here together until you go with me to Hymettus, or until Mr.Van Loo leaves the hotel.

He will hardly attempt to come in here again if I remain." Mrs.Barker, with a half-laugh, sat down irresolutely.

Mrs.Horncastle gazed at her curiously; she was evidently a novice in this sort of thing.