roofs from her father, and such
loud appeals to her pride and dignity from her mother, that she had
ceased to argue the matter, and by both parents her acceptance of his
suit was considered a settled thing. A man with a title _militaire_,
and, moreover, half a million at his command, was not to be found as a
wooer every day; and what though his years were many, when he had a
fortune to long outlive him, and station, which any woman might be proud
to gain? Surely, Della would be worse than silly, to throw away such an
opportunity.

Mrs. Delancey was standing before the glass, arranging the folds of her
elegant dress, with all the care of a Miss of eighteen, as Minny entered
the room, and, standing at a respectful distance, delivered the message
her young mistress had given her.

To her surprise, Mrs. Delancey merely raised her eyebrows slightly, as
she heard her out, then turned round, with a smile upon her lips, and
said:--

"Well, I suppose it would be better so. Matters have gone so far now, it
is all as good as settled, and she, no doubt, is aware that he comes
to-day to declare himself, and feels timid, poor thing, about giving her
answer in the presence of a third person. It is but natural. Tell her,
Minny, that her wishes are acceded to."

Minny left the room with a smile, though it was concealed from Mrs.
Delancey. She bounded like a fawn through the shadowy passages to
Della's apartment, and repeated her mother's answer.

"I told you so, Minny!"

"I never could have believed it, Miss!"

With a changing cheek, but firm, resolute step, Della descended to the
drawing-room, and gracefully received her visitor, who looked no less
surprised than pleased to see her enter alone.

General Delville was a splendid-looking man; and this, united with his
wealth and station, could scarcely have failed to win to his heart any
maiden whom he chose to address, less frank and upright than Della
Delancey.

His fine features were lighted up with a beaming smile of pleasure, as
he took her hand and led her to a seat, nor did he resign that hand
without a gentle pressure of the white and perfumed fingers.

For an instant Della sat, with downcast eyes, in silence, while the
General gazed upon her with the same smile upon his lips, but no words.

Suddenly Della lifted her eyes, and turned them full upon the face
before her.

"General Delville?"

"Della."

"Pardon me, sir, for what I am about to say to you, and which