Neither seemed inclined to break the silence that was partly soothing, partly oppressive. When two people have only recently been introduced, even if mutually desirous of extending their knowledge of one another, it is rather difficult to start an interesting train of conversation when the trivialities of the moment have been exhausted. Blanche Dormer, however, was never very long at a loss. She was soon in the midst of a rattling talk such as she enjoyed. “Have you ever been in this part of the world before?” she asked. “Never.” “You have no friends in the neighborhood?” “None whatever. I have very few friends anywhere.” “You will have plenty soon,” Miss Dormer philosophically remarked. “I understand you were Lady Quaintree’s companion?” “Yes. I have been with her since I was fourteen.” “Are you a relative?” “Oh! dear no. My mother was--was born in quite a different station. She was an embroideress. But she died, and Lady Quaintree was good enough to take an interest in me, and become my protectress.” “How kind! She is a dear, good soul. And so now you are a great heiress. You had some rich relations, then?” “I don’t think I had a relative in the world except my dear mother,” said Lois, a little sadly. Blanche Dormer opened her eyes. Miss Dormer was related to half the wealthy commons of England. “No relations!” she exclaimed, forgetting that she was guilty of an outrageous breach of good manners in thus expressing surprise. “How very strange! I thought you had inherited this place and sacks of money from your uncle.” Lois shook her head. “I had no uncles that I am aware of. My father died when I was a baby, and I never heard my mother speak of his relatives. She herself was an only child.” “Then why----” Miss Dormer stopped abruptly, and blushed a little. Lois laughed as she noticed the hesitation. “Why did Mr. Gardiner make me a person of property?” she supplied. “I cannot tell you, for, although I read his will, I have not seen the slightest hint of his reasons for being so generous. To tell you the truth, I have been puzzling over it ever since.” “What a romantic mystery! Are you sure he was not related to you, my dear?” “If he had been, they would certainly have told me so.” “Did anybody offer you any explanation of his reasons for leaving you his property?” asked Blanche, whose curiosity was strongly excited on the subject. “No.” “Did you ask? Forgive me. I am afraid you will think I am taking unwarrantable liberties in thus cross-questioning you,” apologized Miss Dormer. “No, I do not think so in the least. I feel happy to think you will be my friend,” replied Lois softly. “I did not ask any questions about Mr. Gardiner’s will, because----”