"No, she has not. She has proposed my staying in the house to give lessons to her daughters in music, and to be their companion; but there is nothing stated as to a fixed residence with her." "Well, Valerie, I know that I am odd; but you will soon find out whether you have gained by the change." "Lady R--, I really do not consider you should be so sarcastic or unkind towards me. I do not like to go to France with you for reasons which I have fully explained, at the expense of disclosing family affairs, which I had much rather not have mentioned. You leave me by myself, and I must seek protection somewhere. It is kindly offered by Lady M--, and in my unfortunate position I have not to choose. Be just and be generous." "Well, well, I will," said Lady R--, the tears starting in her eyes; "but you do not know how much I am annoyed at your leaving me. I had hoped, with all my faults, that I had created in you a feeling of attachment to me--God knows, that I _have tried_. If you knew all my history, Valerie, you would not be surprised at my being strange. That occurred when I was of your age which would have driven some people to despair or suicide. As it is, it has alienated me from all my relations, not that I have many. My brother, I never see or hear from, and have not for years. I have refused all his invitations to go down to see him, and he is now offended with me; but there are causes for it, and years cannot wipe away the memory of what did occur." "I assure you, Lady R--, I have been very sensible of your kindness to me," replied I, "and shall always remember it with gratitude; and if you think I have no regard for you, you are mistaken; but the subject has become painful--pray let us say no more." "Well, Valerie, be it so; perhaps it is the wisest plan--" To change the conversation, I said--"Is not your brother the present baronet?" "Yes," replied Lady R-- "And where does he reside?" "In Essex, at Culverwood Hall, the seat of all my misfortunes." I started a little at the mention of the place, as it was the one which the reader may remember was spoken of by Lionel. I then turned the conversation to other matters, and by dinner-time Lady R--had recovered herself, and was as amiable as ever. From that day until Lady R--set off for Paris, there was not a word said relative to Lady M--. She was kind and polite, but not so warm and friendly as she had been before, and in her subdued bearing towards me was more agreeable. Her time was now employed in making preparations for her tour. Lionel was the only one who was to accompany her except her own maid. At last she fixed the day of her departure, and I wrote to Lady M--, who returned an answer that it suited her exactly, as she would go to the country the day after. The evening before Lady R--was to start was passed very gloomily.