justified such a
suspicion in a distant and unprejudiced observer. Does not this show us
how very cautious we ought to be in forming hasty conclusions from
appearances which are proverbially deceptive? I protest I am filled with
remorse and contrition while I reflect how often, in thought, I may have
wronged and misjudged the innocent. I dare say, in many outwardly
flagrant cases, the offenders were only expatiating on the merits or
demerits of absent friends. Such a subject is quite engrossing enough to
excuse a certain amount of "sitting out," and some people _always_ blush
when they are at all interested. The selection of the staircase, the
balcony, or the conservatory for the discussion is the merest
atmospheric question. I subscribe to Mr. Weller's idea--only "turnips"
are incredulous. _Vive la charite!_

After a minute or two Miss Tresilyan spoke: "No, I don't think worse of
Major Keene. As you say, I suppose he could not help it; but it must be
terrible, when passions that are habitually restrained do break loose.
No wonder that you do not wish to see such a sight again. It is very
different, reading of battles and hearing of them from one who was an
actor. Do you know, I think you have an undeveloped talent for
narration. There, that ought to console you, even if Madame de Verzenay
should asperse your character."

At this moment Harry was contemplating the proceedings of his pretty
little wife at the opposite side of the room with an intense
satisfaction and pride.

"If I _had_ yielded to temptation," he said, "I am sure Fan could not
reproach me. She would keep a much greater sinner in countenance. Miss
Myrtle is a thousand times worse since she married. Just remark that
by-play with the handkerchief. You don't suppose M. de Riberac cares one
straw about Valenciennes lace? It makes one feel _Moorish_ all over.
You need not be surprised if she is found smothered or strangled in the
morning. I am 'not easily moved to jealousy, but being moved--'"

"Don't be too murderous," laughed Cecil; "you are certain to regret it
afterward. We will reproach her as she deserves on our way home. Is it
not very late?"

She wanted to be alone to think over what she had heard; and in good
truth, waking or sleeping, the watches of that night were crowded with
dreams.

All this time where was Royston Keene? He had been really anxious to
induce Miss Tresilyan to present herself at Madame de Verzenay's, for he
liked her well e