heaven--" said Janet, as she wrapped her mistress in her grey convent
cape and led her without the gallery.

"Is it possible I was the object of discussion, Janet?"

"'Tis probable. The first trophy thou hast gained without appearing
upon the field."

"And what is that?"

"A woman's hate; thy rival hast given thee the first token of
success." They had reached the tower chamber and Janet began to
prepare her mistress for bed.

"I cannot understand thee, I cannot grasp thy meaning."

"Neither would I have thee understand; for if I took from thee thy
innocent mind, I would deprive thee of thy best weapon. Thou hadst
better chatter of thy poor, grey frock thou wilt don on the morrow."

Katherine stood before a small mirror divested of her outer garments.
The soft white thing that bound her graceful, sloping shoulders, had
fallen loose displaying her glorious white neck and bosom. Janet
caught the mirrored reflection and understood and answered,--

"Nay, thou hast no pulpy blisters, neither shalt have while I feed
thee on pap and rub thee with oil; nor yet a flat chest for thy
shoulders are sunk from prominence by its fulness."

"Shall I wear a low bodice thus, Janet?"