needed spur, which the quick walk to Mrs. Thorn's did not take
off.

"Did you ever see Fleda look so well, Mamma?" said Florence,
as the former entered the drawing-room.

"That is the loveliest and best face in the room," said Mr.
Evelyn; "and she looks like herself to-night."

"There is a matchless simplicity about her," said a gentleman,
standing by.

"Her dress is becoming," said Mrs. Evelyn.

"Why, where did you ever see her, Mr. Stackpole, except at our
house?" said Constance.

"At Mrs. Decatur's — I have had that pleasure — and once at
her uncle's."

"I didn't know you ever noticed ladies' faces, Mr. Stackpole,"
said Florence.

"How Mrs. Thorn does look at her!" said Constance, under her
breath. "It is too much."

It was almost too much for Fleda's equanimity, for the colour
began to come.

"And there goes Mr. Carleton!" said Constance. "I expect