n her sorrow for her little childish freak in every
possible way, would you, my child, accept her words of contrition, and
when I brought her to meet you, receive her as one so noble ought to be
met?'

'No; I would turn from her with scorn. I would tell the humbug what I
think of her.'

'Then, Leucha, I have nothing further to say. I doubt if I _could_ get
Hollyhock to humble herself to this degree; but certainly, after your
last words, I shall not try. Now, you have returned to the school on
an awkward day, when a charade introducing various animals is to be
acted in the great hall. Twelve girls will play different animals, and
the crisis and crux of the whole thing will be the appearance of "poor
ghostie," which part Hollyhock will undertake herself. I warn you
beforehand that, as you are so _very_ timid in the presence of false
ghosts--for, of course, I personally do not believe in real ghosts--it
would be wise for you to remain in your bedroom, and thus keep out of
the way. I believe Hollyhock is going to do the ghost very well. I
have no desire to interfere with the games of the school. The games
teacher, Miss Kent, manages these, and your unexpected and, I must add,
_unwished-for_ return cannot stop to-night's programme. You had better
promise me, therefore, to go to your room, where one of the servants
will bring you up some supper. I really advise you for your own good,
my child, for I understand that ghost will look very awful to-night,
and you, being so terribly nervous, may not be able to bear the sight.'

Don't fear for me, Mrs Macintyre,' said Leucha. 'I 'm not quite such a
fool as you think me, and I certainly will sit in the hall with the
other girls, and, if possible, put Holly to shame.'

'That I strictly forbid,' said Mrs Macintyre. 'A game is a game; a
charade is a charade. While the acting proceeds no looker-on must
interfere except under my intense displeasure. In fact, my dear
Leucha, after what I have said, I shall write to your mother asking her
to remove you from the school, unless you promise not to make any fuss
or show any fear to-night. Go back to your room now.'

'And you really tell me, Mrs Macintyre, that the Earl of Crossways'
daughter will be dismissed from the school?'

'There will be no difficulty about that,' replied Mrs Macintyre. 'I
have six fresh girls anxious to be admitted. You are not popular; your
character does not suit us. The fact of your being Earl