d-day. But
this did not matter. The landlady had a front attic vacant which she was
willing to let to anyone recommended by Mr. Spiller for a very small
sum, and here Lavinia installed herself.

"Have a rest, Polly, and something to eat," said Spiller. "I shall call
for you about eleven o'clock. I want you to look your best. We're going
to see Mr. Rich. Heaven give us luck that we may find him in good
humour."

"Do you mean this morning?" cried Lavinia, in dismay.

"Well, I don't mean this evening. You're not afraid, are you?"

"No, I don't think I am, but--but I would that I had a new gown and
cloak. See how frightfully draggled they are."

"Odds bodikins, Mr. Rich doesn't want to see how you're gowned. Mrs.
Sanders will lend you a needle and thread and help you patch yourself."

Lavinia would have protested but Spiller laughed away her objections,
and departed with a final injunction to be in readiness when he called.

When the girl was alone she looked around her new abode with interest
and curiosity. The room was small; it had a sloping roof coming so low
at one end where the bed was that she would have to take care not to
strike her head against the ceiling when she sat up. The furniture was
scanty and plain but the place was clean. For the first time in her life
she was completely her own mistress. She sank into a roomy arm-chair,
and surveyed her domain with much satisfaction; then she half closed her
eyes and indulged in a day dream.

Everything in the most wonderful way had turned out for the best. She
dreaded being banished to Hampstead. It had threatened insuperable
obstacles in the way of her love and her ambition. She had felt that she
was going into exile. But all was now smooth. Her scruples about keeping
her promise to Vane vanished. If only her visit to Mr. Rich proved
successful, her happiness would be complete.

The time sped in her roseate musings. She had had a rest as Spiller
advised and springing up she attacked her ragged attire with renewed
energy. When Spiller called, she looked so fresh and animated the
comedian laughed and complimented her.

"Gadsooks," he exclaimed, "you clever hussy! It's well our plans are
altered. If Rich not only offered thee an engagement but made love into
the bargain then the fat would be in the fire. He hath a termagant of a
wife. She'd as lief scratch your face as look at you. But thank the Lord
you're safe."

"Safe? I don't understand," cried Lavinia a