tion of our system of popular schooling. I believe
nothing serious can be done until we have a truly civic education for
the masses of the people."

This was the outcome of Lashmar's resolve to be practical, whilst
adhering to his philosophy. He knew that it sounded well, this demand
for educational reform; however vague in reality, it gave the ordinary
hearer a quasi-intelligible phrase to remember and repeat. Sir William
Amys was not proof against the plausibility of such words: he admitted
that one might do worse than devote oneself to that question; popular
schooling, heaven knew, being much in need of common-sense reform. Dyce
tactfully pressed his advantage. He ridiculed the extravagance of
educationalism run mad, its waste of public money, the harm it does
from a social point of view; and, the longer he spoke, the better
pleased was Sir William to hear him. Their hostess, silent and closely
attentive, smiled with satisfaction. Constance, meanwhile, noted the
countenance of May Tomalin, which exhibited the same kind of pleased
approval.--Only a day or two ago, May, speaking on this subject, had
expressed views diametrically opposite.

After luncheon, Lady Ogram held Lashmar in talk, whilst the two young
ladies conversed with the baronet apart. Dyce had hoped for a little
gossip with Miss Tomalin, but no chance offered; discretion bade him
take leave before Sir William had given sign of rising.

"I don't know how long we shall be in town," said Lady Ogram, who did
not seek to detain him, "but of course we shall see you again. We shall
generally be at home at five o'clock."

He had hoped for a more definite and a more cordial invitation. Issuing
into Albemarle Street, he looked vaguely about him, and wondered how he
should get through the rest of the afternoon. A dull sky hastened the
failure of his spirits; when, in a few minutes, rain began to fall, he
walked on under his umbrella, thoroughly cheerless and objectless. Then
it struck him that he would go presently to Pont Street; Mrs. Toplady
might help him to solve the mystery of Lady Ogram's niece.

Confound Lady Ogram's niece! Her appearance could not have been more
inopportune. The old woman was obviously quite taken up with her, and,
as likely as not, would lose all her interest in politics. Here was the
explanation of her not having answered his last long letter. Confound
Miss--what was her foolish name?--Tomalin!

And yet--and yet--there glimmered anot