"And, Evadne, remember: a woman has it in her power to change even a reprobate into a worthy man--and I know from the way George talks that he is far from being a reprobate now. And just think what a work that is! The angels in heaven rejoice over the sinner that repents, and you have before you a sphere of action which it should gladden your heart to contemplate. I don't deny that there _were_ things in George's past life which it is very sad to think of, but women have always much to bear. It is our _cross_, and you must take up yours patiently and be sure that you will have your reward. _Whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth_. I wish now that I had talked to you on the subject before you were married, and prepared you to meet some forms of wickedness in a proper spirit; you would not then have been at the mercy of the wicked woman who has caused all this mischief. She is some clever designing adventuress, I suppose, and she must have told you dreadful things which you should never have heard of at your age, and I suspect that jealousy is at the bottom of it all. She may herself have been cast off in her wickedness for my own sweet innocent child's sake. When I think of all the happiness she has destroyed, of these dark days following such bright prospects, I could see her _whipped_, Evadne, I could indeed. Everything had arranged itself so beautifully. He is an excellent match. The Irish property, which he _must_ have, is one of the best in the country, and as there is only one fragile child between him and the Scotch estates, you might almost venture to calculate upon becoming mistress of them also. And then, he certainly is a handsome and attractive man of most charming manners, so what more do you want? He is a good Churchman too. You know how regularly he accompanied you to every service. And, _really_ if you will just think for a _moment_, I am sure you will see yourself that you have made a terrible mistake, and repent while it is called today. But we do not blame you entirely, dear. You have surprised and distressed us, but we all freely forgive you, and if you will come back at once, you need fear _no_ reproaches, for not another word will _ever_ be said on the subject.--I am, dear child, "Ever your loving mother, "ELIZABETH FRAYLING." "P.S.--Your father is so horrified at your conduct that he declares he will neither write to you nor speak to you until you return to your duty." Evadne took a day and a half to consider her mother's letter, and then she wrote the following reply: "THE CLOSE, MORNINGQUEST, 9th October. "MY DEAR MOTHER: