“Oh, auntie, see what lovely pictures and statuettes—and just look at this lovely toilet set—was there ever anything so exquisite!” exclaimed the impulsive girl, who had sprung from her couch, and was pattering about in her little bare feet upon an exploring expedition, and filled with admiration at everything she saw. But madam was in a brown study. The change was as unaccountable as it was lovely, and she was deeply troubled and perplexed. What could be the motive for this complete transformation? The design could not have been robbery, for there lay all their luggage right before them, while her watch and money were snugly tucked beneath her pillow, just where she had placed them before retiring. The more she strove to solve the mystery, the more puzzled she became. But she wisely resolved not to excite Dora’s fears, until she saw something actually alarming. At this moment a servant swept aside the heavy curtain which covered the entrance to the room, and approached. But she suddenly stopped upon seeing that little white-robed fairy who was flitting about the room, and a look of honest admiration settled over her face. Presently she went forward, and said, in a low, sweet voice: “Can I assist mademoiselle about her toilet?” Dora gave a little scream of startled surprise, for she had not heard the girl’s light steps behind her. But seeing that it was not the same maid who had attended them the previous night, she recovered her self-possession, and said: “How you startled me, my good girl! But never mind. Where did you drop from and what is your name?” “Nina, at your service; and I came in at the door,” was the reply. “Well, then, Nina, if that is so—for I did not know but that you had woke up and found yourself here, like ourselves—please tell me where we are, for I believe my head is nearly turned with so much beauty and elegance.” “I am happy to know that mademoiselle is pleased with her apartments,” returned Nina, evading Dora’s query. “Apartments? Is there more than one?” questioned Dora, in surprise. The girl stepped hastily forward, and seizing a heavy tassel, gave it a vigorous pull, and instantly two huge curtains slid apart, disclosing an elegant boudoir. “See!” she said. “This is for your accommodation, too.” “Oh-o-oh! Auntie, do come and see!” exclaimed the gratified girl, with a radiant face. Her features clouded again instantly, as she said: “But you have not yet answered my question; you have not told me where I am.” She tapped her foot impatiently, while she went on: “It is all very nice to have these beautiful things at my command. But I want to know whose hospitality I am enjoying, all unasked. We were not in this place last night. Whose residence is this?” There was no retreat. The little maiden’s tone was very imperative, and there was an indignant sparkle in her blue eyes.