"Oh that is another thing" replied Emily coloring, but I shall say so, and try the effect." "It cannot be his wish to stay away" said Isabel thoughtfully. "It is the strangest thing I ever knew," replied Grace. "Isabel felt very uncomfortable, for somehow she could not help thinking that she might be the cause, (as, once, Everard had been very near the forbidden subject, saying that it was quite a punishment to be under the same roof, unless there was some change in their position, toward each other. "She was sorry that he had not said so before Isabel had replied, and that very day, told Mrs. Arlington that she wished to leave, as soon as she could meet with another governess. Mrs. Arlington asked her reasons. But Miss Leicester would give none. Then Mrs. Arlington requested that Miss Leicester would reconsider the matter, but Miss Leicester refused to do so. Then Mrs. Arlington insisted, saying that she would except her resignation, if at the end of the week she still wished it, though they would all be sorry to part with her. Everard of course heard what had taken place, and immediately made it his business to alter that young lady's determination, protesting that he had said nothing to make her pursue such a course. He forced her to admit that it was solely on his account that she was leaving, and then talked her into consenting to withdraw her resignation at the end of the week, promising to be more careful not to offend in future.) She wished very much that she could spend this Xmas. with Mrs. Arnold, but this was impossible, as she had promised Emily to be bridesmaid. "Then you don't think it would do to say that," Emily said inquiringly. "It would seem childish" returned Isabel. "And have no effect," added Grace. "Coaxing would be better you think." "Decidedly," said Isabel laughing. "The begging and praying style, might answer" returned Grace scornfully, "he always likes to be made a fuss with, and all that nonsense, if the children do but kiss him, and call him a dear kind brother and such like rubbish, he will do almost anything." Now Grace don't say the children, when you mean me, interposed Emily, I will not hear a word against Evvie, so don't be cross. I know you always were a little jealous of his partiality for me." "I am not cross, nor did I say anything against Everard," retorted Grace haughtily "and as for partiality, where is the favouritism now." "Oh well, I shall write such a letter that he can't but come." "I wish you success with all my heart," returned Grace more good naturedly, while Isabel gazed silently out of the window. * * * * * * * * "No answer to my letter yet, is it not strange said Emily as she joined Isabel in her favourite retreat, the conservatory, "what do you think about it, it makes me positively unhappy." "Shall I tell you what I think" asked Isabel passing her arm round Emily and continuing her walk.