the compliment with
music and grateful homage."

"As none but you and Lady Rosamond regret being turned out, I presume,"
exclaimed Charles Douglas, who was always ready to join any conversation
that afforded amusement. He continued passing careless jokes until the
clock in the hall reminded him of his business.

"Really, Lady Rosamond, I credit you with driving away dull care and my
forfeiting all claims to the future good will of my friend Howe by
disregarding his message. Pardon me, ladies, for having almost forgotten
to say that the sleigh will be in readiness in half an hour."

"Half an hour," exclaimed Mary Douglas, somewhat hastily, "really,
Charles, I cannot pardon you for such neglect, as it sadly interferes
with my plans."

"Come, little one, frowns do not become thy brow," returned Captain
Douglas, kissing the forehead of his sister.

"That is much prettier," said he, pointing to the smiling face which in
turn rested upon him.

Taking up a book which lay open beside the seat hitherto occupied by
Lady Rosamond, Captain Douglas commenced to read some lines from
Tennyson, when accosted by his companion, Mr. Howe:

"You seem to be taking things very cool, old fellow. Where are the
ladies?"

"They are getting ready; come in while we are waiting."

"This is your fault again, Douglas. It is past the hour, and a large
party awaits us," said Mr. Howe impatiently.

"Better late than never," vociferated Captain Douglas, as he went out
singing, quickly returning with Mary Douglas and Lady Rosamond.

"It is all Charles' fault," said the former, by way of explanation.

"Ha, ha, ha," laughed Captain Douglas, "I knew this was coming, but I
must be as jolly as I can."

"Your ladyship is under my protection," said the incorrigible
delinquent, offering his arm to Lady Rosamond, while Mary Douglas was
assigned to the companionship of the private secretary.

"This is indeed a merry party," said Lady Rosamond to her gallant, as he
placed her beside him and wrapped the daintily lined robes around her.

"I am half inclined to be angry with Trevelyan," said Mr. Howe, turning
around in his seat and facing Captain Douglas.

"What are your grounds?" questioned the latter.

"Enough to justify my declaration," said the former, apparently looking
at Captain Douglas, but in reality casting sidelong glances at Lady
Rosamond.

What did he seek there? Did jealousy cause that stolen glance? What was
the motive? These impor