“I shall offer no opposition of that kind,” Isabel said. “You are old enough to think and act for yourself. If you had come and told me of this in a friendly way I should no doubt have used the privilege of my age and experience----” “To tell me what you have already on several occasions said indirectly,” broke in the girl, again passionate. “Thank you; I can make all such reflections for myself.” “I think you are unjust to me, Ada,” said Mrs. Clarendon, in a lowered voice. Her fingers were now grasping the chair, instead of resting upon it. “When you have had time to reflect I am sure you will speak to me differently.” Ada stood silent. “You propose to be married shortly?” Isabel asked, joining her hands together before her. “As soon as will suit your convenience, Mrs. Clarendon.” “Pray do not consult that.” She could not hold back this little note of resentment, and, having uttered it, she turned and left the room. As she drew the door to, a servant approached to say that the carriage waited. “I shall not want it,” Isabel replied shortly; “let it go back.” She moved to the foot of the stairs, and in doing so, had to pass the drawing-room door, which stood open. Mrs. Stratton was within. Hearing the rustle of Isabel’s dress she came forward. “Ready?” she said; and added with a smile, “pray remember me to Lord Winterset; he is sure to be there.” Isabel was pale now. She stood with one foot on the stairs and a hand pressed against her side. For a moment she looked strangely into her friends face, then turned and called to the footman, who was in the doorway of the house. “Ward, stop the carriage!” “Whats this?” inquired Mrs. Stratton, looking puzzled. Only an extreme occasion would have called alarm to that heroic lady’s face. “I sent the carriage away,” Isabel explained. “I had a faintness--thought I wouldn’t go. It has gone! I shall be late.” “You certainly don’t look very well. A glass of sherry, dear----?” “No, no; it has gone. Don’t sit up for me, Rose. Good-bye, dear.” They kissed each other, and Mrs. Clarendon rustled to her carriage. CHAPTER XII.