"I have just returned from a tranquil little Arcadian evening party at Lady Desmond's, where I was introduced to your old acquaintance, Miss Vernon, and I am half inclined to forgive you all the nonsense you used to talk about her; though she looks pale and pensive, I think she is still more lovely than she was at that ball, where we saw her, two years ago. I fancy I can account for the present quietism and irreproachable life of the rather notorious Lord Effingham. He came in for old St. L's beautiful villa near Richmond, some time ago, and is nominally living there; but, in reality, is here every day, and all day, and the gossips are puzzled; because if Lady Desmond is the attraction, they could have married any time these two years; but, from what I have seen, I am certain it is your friend Miss Vernon who will be Countess of Effingham. In short, I am pretty sure they are engaged; I hope he may make a tolerable husband, for she deserves well I am certain. This is my latest intelligence--so, good night, old fellow, and do not keep me six months waiting for a reply to this." Kate was sitting, near the window, in her room, waiting until the household had sunk into silence before she laid down to sleep, when the door was softly opened by Lady Desmond, who entered, saying-- "Are you awake? Oh! you have not gone to bed." "Dear Georgy!" exclaimed Miss Vernon, rising to meet her, "I hope you did not think me rude for running away so selfishly, but--" "Not a word more," interrupted her cousin, passing her arm caressingly round her, "you were right to do as you felt inclined--indeed I fear I was inconsiderate in asking you to join us, nor was there anything very attractive in our guests." There was a pause for some moments; and then, Lady Desmond, drawing Kate closer to the window, asked-- "Are you sleepy, love?" "No, dear Georgy, not in the least." "Then I will resume my revelations. I have not felt in the mood to do so before, and you were wise and kind not to urge me." "Go on then, dearest," said Kate, "I long to hear your story."