The blood rushed with impetuous pulsation into the face of Christobelle, and it overspread her forehead, neck, and even her hands: if Lady Wetheral observed the suffusion her words had produced, she affected not to perceive it. "I should advise you to be very cautious in your conduct to both gentlemen, my dear Bell. Do not be seen too exclusively with Sir John Spottiswoode, to attract attention; and yet, do not check hope on his part. If Lord Farnborough quits Clanmoray without intending any thing, or merely flirts with you, then, let Sir John propose. Alverton is an excellent _au pis aller_, but I would rather my dear Bell could be saluted Duchess of Forfar." It was some moments before Christobelle could rally her thoughts and spirits, after the mention of Lord Farnborough, in the light of a future suitor. For one instant, only, the idea of his lordship's affection shot a gleam of ambition into her mind, but the paltry feeling was soon extinguished for ever, and her heart flew back to the remembered excellence of her former instructor and friend. Her mother watched the workings of her spirit. "If Lord Farnborough calls to-day, my love, I shall invite him to dinner." "His lordship is a guest at Clanmoray," observed Christobelle, hastily. "He will be a guest at Fairlee soon," answered my mother, gaily. "I could fancy myself quite well again, my dear child; quite alert, as I used to be; your little '_minauderies_' will raise me into new life and spirits. I am sure Lord Farnborough is handsome and of high bearing. I am sure he is clever and agreeable; your little coquetries will divert me into health again." "But, mamma--" "No 'ifs' and 'buts,' my dear Bell. I have every dependence upon your attractions. Sir John Spottiswoode is astonished at your improved appearance." "Listen to me, if you please, mamma. I am no coquette; and I would rather die than be considered a character so repugnant to all that is holy and upright." "My dear girl, forbear sentiment. A little sentiment, if you please, to Lord Farnborough, but not to me." "I have no wish to marry, mamma," pleaded Christobelle, with earnest seriousness. "I have no wish to leave papa, and--I have no wish to marry Sir John Spottiswoode, and I cannot try to attract any body. Pray, do not advise me to avoid Sir John, or to think of any establishment. Don't let me endure the fate of Clara, or Julia's long banishment." Lady Wetheral's hands began to tremble, and her features became agitated as she spoke. "I am well used to disobedience, and this only adds to my accumulation of vexations. Every thing has conspired to make me miserable, and I have one child left to reproach me with bitterness. How could I expect obedience from a headstrong girl, whose masculine education defies restraint!" "Indeed, mamma, I am anxious to do right. Indeed, my wish is to please every one; but I cannot think it right to treat Sir John Spottiswoode ill."