most men. I am very unhappy. I don't pretend to be anything else.
My sister-in-law has stolen a march on me, but at least there is one
thing on which I am determined. You, of course, Cecilia, can do as you
please, but I positively _refuse_ to send a child of mine to that place
until I have first had an interview with Mrs Macintyre.'

'And that is most sensible of you, George. I shall wire to her and ask
her to come to The Paddock to-day. I shall be so glad to put her up
and make her happy. A woman in her case, with financial difficulties,
having lost husband and children, is so deeply to be pitied. My whole
heart aches for the poor, dear thing.'

'Cecilia, I would not know you this morning. I must go back now to my
little girls. They at least are all my own; they at least dislike the
woman who has conquered your too kind heart.'

'George, I have faithfully promised in your name and my own to visit
Ardshiel immediately after luncheon to-day. We have to see for
ourselves that the sad home of neglect and tragedy, which will soon be
filled with young and happy life, is in all respects suited to our
purpose.'

'Oh dear, oh dear!' said George Lennox. 'Well, if I must, I must. Two
women against one man! I suppose I may be allowed to bring Hollyhock?'

'Best not, on the first occasion. She irritates Miss Delacour.'

'Oh, bother Miss Delacour!' exclaimed the Honourable George, who was
now at last thoroughly out of humour. 'Well, I'll meet you at
half-past two at Ardshiel, and I hope by then I may feel a little
calmer than I do at present.'

As soon as George Lennox had gone, Mrs Constable sent a telegram to the
bereaved and distracted Mrs Macintyre, inviting her to make a speedy
visit to The Paddock. This telegram had only to go as far as
Edinburgh, for Miss Delacour had put her friend up in a shabby room in
a back-street in that city of rare beauty. The address had been given,
however, to Mrs Constable; and Mrs Macintyre, who was feeling very
depressed, and wondering if anything could come of her friend's scheme,
replied instanter: 'Will be with you by next train.'

Mrs Constable made all preparations for her guest's arrival. The best
spare room was got ready. The finest linen sheets, smelling of
lavender, were spread on the soft bed. The room was a lovely one, and
in every respect a contrast to any Mrs Macintyre had used of late.

As has been said, it was the custom for the Constables and the Lenno