that I could expose her, and have her cast forth
in ignominy from my father's house? Or did she venture all in the hope
that consideration of my father's age and position in the world would
shut my mouth and stay my hand? She is mistaken, the jade! Unless she
falls into my plans, and works for my interest, she shall be exposed and
degraded from her present position."

Mr. Fabian was interrupted by the re-entrance of Mrs. Rothsay. He turned
to meet her and inquired:

"Where did you leave Violet, my dear?"

"She is in her own room, which is next to mine. I went in with her and
saw her to bed, and waited until she went to sleep," replied Cora.

"Poor little one! She is very fragile, and has been very much fatigued.
I do not think, my dear, that I can take her on to Rockhold to-morrow. I
think I must let her rest here for a day or two."

"It would be best, not only on account of Violet's delicacy and
weariness, but also on account of the condition of the house at
Rockhold, which has not been opened or aired for months."

"That is true; though I had not thought of it before," said Mr. Fabian,
who was well pleased that Cora so readily fell in with his plans.

"What do you think of the pater's marriage, Cora?' he next inquired.

"I would rather not give an opinion, Uncle Fabian," she answered.

"Then I am equally well answered, for that is giving a very strong
opinion!" he exclaimed.

"The deed is done and cannot be undone!"

"Can it not? Perhaps it can!"

"What do you mean, Uncle Fabian?"

"Nothing that you need trouble yourself about, my dear. But tell me
this--what do you mean to do, Cora? Do you mean to stay on at Rockhold?"

"I suppose I must do so."

"Not at all, if you do not like! You are an independent widow and may go
where you please."

"I know that and wish to go; but I do not wish to make a scene or cause
a scandal by leaving my grandfather's protection so suddenly after his
marriage, which is open enough to criticism, as it is. So I must stay on
at Rockhold so long as Sylvan's leave shall last, and until he shall
receive his commission and orders. Then I will go with him wherever his
duty may call him."

"Good girl! You have decided well and wisely. Though the post of duty to
which the callow lieutenantling will be ordered must, of course, be Fort
Jumping Off Point, at the extreme end of the habitable globe. Well, my
dear, I must bid you good night, for, see, it is on the stroke of eleven
o'