CHAPTER XII.
THEY drove home in silence, Mrs.Lee disturbed with anxieties and doubts, partly caused by her sister, partly by Mr.Ratcliffe; Sybil divided between amusement at Victoria's conquest, and alarm at her own boldness in meddling with her sister's affairs.

Desperation, however, was stronger than fear.

She made up her mind that further suspense was not to be endured; she would fight her baffle now before another hour was lost; surely no time could be better.

A few moments brought them to their door.

Mrs.Lee had told her maid not to wait for them, and they were alone.