think I must be a `nice old-fashioned girl,' but there's no demand for old-fashioned girls to-day. Nobody wants them!" "I don't agree with you there, Norah. I think there's a big demand," Mrs Ingram said quickly, and from the men present came a deep murmur of agreement. No one present was in love with Norah Boyce herself, but all were in love with her type. She would make a charming wife, a delightful mother. To the end of her life she would probably have difficulties with cheques, and remain hopelessly mixed on political questions, but she would be a genius in the making of a home! "You'll find your right niche, dear, I've no doubt of that. You mustn't allow yourself to despair before you begin your search." Mrs Ingram continued smiling. "Your ambition, at any rate, is a thing in which we can all help. Please everybody remember Norah, and let her know at once if you hear of a suitable post! I think we must make a strong point of her disposition. Such a very sweet temper ought to be priced above rubies." "I'll sell it cheap at three pounds a week!" said Norah ruefully, and there was a merry outburst of laughter. It died quickly, however, and a general expectation made itself felt, the echo of which sounded in Mrs Ingram's voice. "Only one more confession, and we have gone through our list. Lilith is hiding, as usual, but she shall not escape. Come out of your corner, you silent sprite, and tell us what gift you would ask of the Fates to-night!" "A white moss rose!" drawled Claudia mockingly, but the ripple of laughter which usually followed her words was this time feeble and unreal. Every eye was turned towards that darkened corner; the very fire, as though following the general example, threw up a long blue flame which flickered strangely over Lilith's face. She moved forward with a noiseless deliberation; first, two tiny, white-shod feet gleamed upon the oak floor, then two small hands clasped on folds of satin; last of all, the small head with the tightly swathed hair, the small, straight features, and the curious light-rimmed eyes. For a long, silent moment she sat gazing before her. Her voice when she spoke had an unexpected depth and richness. "I want," said Lilith slowly--"Power!"