es; but you are never really pretty, Cecil, except in a grand velvet
dress, and then you are splendid."

"Fine feathers make fine birds," replied the other, rather hurt. It was
not a morning on which she could bear to be told that her attractions
must depend on her toilette; but, half-an-hour afterwards, as she knotted
some carnation ribbon on the grey dress and in her dusky hair, a shy
smile came over her face, for she saw she was beautiful with the light of
love. A warm tinge coloured the usually pale cheek, the lips had taken
a deeper red, and were parted with a rare _fin_ smile--the velvet
eyes were softer and of liquid brightness.

So thought Bertie, as his expressive glance but too well revealed when
they met at breakfast. He made no attempt to conceal his devotion; his
eyes scarcely left her face, and his voice took a different tone in
addressing her. Fortunately for Bluebell's peace of mind, she was not
present. Mrs. Rolleston noticed it, and rejoiced; the Colonel was equally
perceptive, and made an inward resolve.

CHAPTER XXIV.

LITTLE PITCHERS.

If aught in nature be unnatural,
It is the slaying, by a spring-tide frost,
Of Spring's own children; cheated blossoms all
Betrayed i' the birth, and born for burial,
Of budding promise; scarce beloved ere lost.
--Fables In Song.

The whole party were gathered on the lawn after breakfast, preparing for
the start, and continually running backwards and forwards for something
forgotten. Du Meresq and Cecil were talking apart: the Colonel was to be
told that evening after dinner; and Bertie had to get to Cobourg, and
catch the night steamer there.

"If we are late back, there will be hardly any time," said the girl.

"Long enough to explain my magnificent prospects, or rather projects. Oh,
Cecil, you will be firm, anyhow!"

Her answer was prevented by a clinging sister rushing up. She hummed the
words of a favourite air. "Loyal je serai durant ma vie."

Bertie picked a rose and gave it to her. "It exactly matches your
ribbons," said he.

It reminded Cecil of her dream, when he gave her a rose instead of a
ring, and turned into Fane, and a superstitious chill came over her. At
this moment Colonel Rolleston stepped out.

"It is time you people were off. I am only coming with you as far as the
hotel to get a trap. I find I must go to Cobourg for letters. I wish,
Cecil you would drive with me."

What? give