She ran to her room, and flinging herself on the bed, burst into a flood of tears. The humiliation seemed dreadful. She wondered how Eddie, whom she loved above all else in the world, could treat her so cruelly. What had she done? He knew--ah, yes, he knew well enough the happiness he could cause her--and he went out of his way to be brutal. She wept bitterly, and jealousy of Miss Glover (Miss Glover, of all people!) stabbed her to the heart. “He doesn’t love me,” she moaned, her tears redoubling. Presently there was a knock at the door. “Who is it?” she cried. The handle was turned and Miss Glover came in, red with nervousness. “Forgive me for coming in, Bertha. But I thought you seemed unwell. Can’t I do something for you?” “Oh, I’m all right,” said Bertha, drying her tears, “Only the heat upset me and I’ve got a headache.” “Shall I send Edward to you?” “What do I want with Edward?” replied Bertha, petulantly. “I shall be all right in five minutes. I often have attacks like this.” “I’m sure he didn’t mean to say anything unkind. He’s kindness itself, I know.” Bertha flushed. “What on earth do you mean, Fanny? Who didn’t say anything unkind?” “I thought you were hurt by Edward’s saying you were a duffer and a beginner.” “Oh, my dear, you must think me a fool.” Bertha laughed hysterically. “It’s quite true that I’m a duffer. I tell you it’s only the weather. Why, if my feelings were hurt each time Eddie said a thing like that I should lead a miserable life.” “I wish you’d let me send him up to you,” said Miss Glover, unconvinced. “Good heavens! Why? See, I’m all right now.” She washed her eyes and passed the powder-puff over her face. “My dear, it was only the sun.” With an effort she braced herself, and burst into a laugh joyful enough almost to deceive the Vicar’s sister. “Now, we must go down, or Mrs. Branderton will complain more than ever of my bad manners.” She put her arm round Miss Glover’s waist and ran her down the stairs to the mingled terror and amazement of that good creature. For the rest of the afternoon, though her eyes never rested on Edward, she was perfectly charming--in the highest spirits, chattering incessantly, laughing; every one noticed her good humour and commented upon her obvious felicity. “It does one good to see a couple like that,” said General Hancock, “just as happy as the day is long.” But the little scene had not escaped Miss Ley’s sharp eyes, and she noticed with agony that Miss Glover had gone to Bertha. She could not stop her, being at the moment in the toils of Mrs. Branderton. “Oh, these good people are too officious! Why can’t she leave the girl alone to have it out with herself!” But the explanation of everything now flashed across Miss Ley.