g above board here. We
haven't much to amuse us, and so every one likes to know every one else's
business. I can see you have an eye for reform, so think it just as well
to warn others about you.'

'Hilda,' said Mrs. Forsyth, who evidently wished to change the subject,
'Lady Walker has invited you to go to some theatricals next Wednesday
with the girls. I told her you had no engagement; you will enjoy it, I
hope. They live a little distance off in a beautiful old abbey, and are
very nice people.'

There was silence; I felt that difficulties were all round me this
afternoon, and perhaps being so tired helped to make me less willing to
assert my views. I sipped my cup of tea before replying, and then said
quietly,--

'It was very kind of her to ask me.'

'It will be great fun, Hilda. The Walkers are awfully good at that kind
of thing, and they are going to have the stage out of doors. I wish I
was going to take part in it, but we shall finish up with a dance after,
so I shall keep myself for that.'

Silently I put up a prayer for courage, and then replied,--

'I don't think I shall go, Nelly; I do not care about theatricals nor
dancing.'

'I have accepted for you,' said Mrs. Forsyth quickly and decidedly, 'for
General Forsyth wishes you to go. I am afraid you must keep your likes
and dislikes in the background whilst with us about matters like this.'
And taking up her work she left us and went towards the house, whilst I
felt my cheeks burn, as I realized how displeased she was at my speech.

Nelly began laughing and talking with Captain Gates, Constance and Mr.
Stroud soon strolled away, and I sat on, conscious that Kenneth's eyes
were upon me, yet feeling so uncertain of myself that I dared not speak.
I think I was very near tears. Presently Nelly turned to me: 'Have you
finished your tea, Hilda? will you come and get some flowers for the
dinner-table?'

I jumped up, tired though I was, and when we were out of hearing of the
others, Nelly put her hand caressingly on my arm:--

'You poor little thing, you have been having a hot time of it since you
came back from your walk. I feel awfully sorry for you. Mother is
vexed, of course, but she will have forgotten all about it by the time
she next sees you. She is never angry for long. Captain Gates said to
me just now that you were not wanting in courage or straightforwardness;
you spoke up well, Hilda; but I have warned you beforehand, you had much