better,' she whispered.

'You have, indeed. But those feelings must be regulated, and
strengthening the intellect strengthens the governing power.'

Philip, with all his sense, was mystifying himself, because he was
departing from right, the only true 'good sense.' His right judgment
in all things was becoming obscured, so he talked metaphysical jargon,
instead of plain practical truth, and thought he was teaching Laura to
strengthen her powers of mind, instead of giving way to dreams, when
he was only leading her to stifle meditation, and thus securing her
complete submission to himself.

She was happier after this conversation, and better able to pay
attention to the guests, nor did she feel guilty when obliged to play
and sing in the evening--for she knew he must own that she could do no
otherwise.

Lady Eveleen gave, however, its brilliancy to the party. She had
something wonderfully winning and fascinating about her, and Philip
owned to himself that it took no small resolution on the part of Mr.
Thorndale to keep so steadily aloof from the party in the bay window,
where she was reigning like a queen, and inspiring gaiety like a fairy.
She made Guy sing with her; it was the first time he had ever sung,
except among themselves, as Mrs. Edmonstone had never known whether he
would like to be asked; but Eveleen refused to sing some of the Irish
melodies unless he would join her, and without making any difficulty he
did so. Mrs. Brownlow professed to be electrified, and Eveleen declaring
that she knew she sung like a peacock, told Mrs. Brownlow that the thing
to hear was Sir Guy singing glees with Laura and Amy. Of course, they
were obliged to sing. Mrs. Brownlow was delighted; and as she had
considerable knowledge of music, they all grew eager and Philip thought
it very foolish of Guy to allow so much of his talent and enthusiasm to
display themselves.

When all the people were gone, and the home party had wished each other
good-night, Philip lingered in the drawing-room to finish a letter. Guy,
after helping Charles up-stairs, came down a few moments after, to fetch
something which he had forgotten. Philip looked up,--'You contributed
greatly to the entertainment this evening,' he said.

Guy coloured, not quite sure that this was not said sarcastically, and
provoked with himself for being vexed.

'You think one devoid of the sixth sense has no right to speak,' said
Philip.

'I can't expect all to think it, a