comma, but bounded, wagged his tail, thrust his nose into his master's
hand and then proceeded to reconnoitre the rest of the company, paying
especial attention to Charles, putting his fore-paws on the sofa, and
rearing himself up to contemplate him with a grave, polite curiosity,
that was very diverting.

'Well, old fellow,' said Charles, 'did you ever see the like of such a
dressing-gown? Are you satisfied? Give me your paw, and let us swear
an eternal friendship.'

'I am quite glad to see a dog in the house again,' said Laura, and,
after a few more compliments, Bustle and his master followed Mr.
Edmonstone out of the room.

'One of my father's well-judged proceedings,' murmured Charles. 'That
poor fellow had rather have gone a dozen, miles further than have been
lugged in here. Really, if papa chooses to inflict such dressing-gowns
on me, he should give me notice before he brings men and dogs to make
me their laughing-stock!'

'An unlucky moment,' said Laura. 'Will my cheeks ever cool?'

'Perhaps he did not hear,' said Amabel, consolingly.

'You did not ask about Philip?' said Charlotte, with great earnestness.

'He is staying at Thorndale, and then going to St. Mildred's,' said
Laura.

'I hope you are relieved,' said her brother; and she looked in doubt