"You are an accomplished artist," said Miss Charteris, "you must
have given much time to study."

"I am fond of it," said Ronald; "if fate had not made me an only
son, I should have chosen painting as my profession."

In after years these words came back to them as a sad prophecy.

Ronald liked Miss Charteris. Apart from her grand beauty, she
had the charm, too, of a kindly heart and an affectionate nature.
He saw how much Lady Earle loved her, and resolved to tell
Valentine all about Dora, and ask her to try to influence his
mother. With that aim and end in view, he talked continually to
the young lady; he accompanied her in all her walks and drives,
and they sang and sketched together. Ronald, knowing himself so
safely bound to Dora, forgot in what light his conduct must
appear to others. Lady Earle had forgotten her fears; she
believed that her son was learning to love Valentine, and her
husband shared her belief.

All things just then were couleur de rose at Earlescourt. Ronald
looked and felt happy--he had great faith in Valentine's
persuasive powers.

Days passed by rapidly; the time for the grand ball was drawing
near. Lady Earle half wondered when her son would speak of Miss
Charteris, and Valentine wondered why he lingered near her, why
oftentimes he was on the point of speaking, and then drew back.
She quite believed he cared for her, and she liked him in return,