Up to the man's forehead rushed the treacherous blood. He frowned, he scowled, he opened his lips to protest; but that flush had answered for him, and Claire refused to listen. "No, no--don't! Of course you wouldn't. Who would, in your place? Poor darlings--I quite understand. You _are_ middle-aged, you know, though you feel about nineteen, and mother is prettier and more charming than half the girl brides. And you will want to be just as young and foolish as you like, not to be _obliged_ to be sensible because a grown-up daughter is there all the time, staring at you with big eyes? I should be in the way, and I should _feel_ in the way, and--" Mr Judge interrupted in an urgent voice: "Look here, Claire, I don't think you ought to corner me like this. It's not fair. I've told you that I am prepared to do everything for your happiness. You ought surely to realise that I--" "And _you_ ought to realise that I--" Claire broke off suddenly, and held out her hand with a charming smile. "Oh, but there's plenty of time--we can arrange all that later on. Let's go and find mother and put her out of her misery. She will be longing to see us come back." They walked down the avenue together, and, as they went, Claire turned her head from side to side, taking in the well-known scene with wistful intensity. How many times would she see it again? As she had said, many discussions would certainly take place as to her future destination, but she knew in her heart that the result was sure. Providence had decided or her. The future was London and work! CHAPTER THREE. MRS. GIFFORD IS MARRIED. Claire lost no time in writing to Miss Farnborough to apply for the post of French mistress if it were still vacant, and by return of post received a cordial reply. Several applications had been received, but no appointment had been made, and the Head was pleased to confirm her previous offer of a commencing salary of a hundred and ten pounds, and would expect Miss Gifford to take up her duties at the beginning of the autumn term. She congratulated her on her decision, and felt sure she would never regret devoting her life to so interesting and valuable a work, instead of being content to waste it in the pursuit of idle pleasure.