Frank told his story, including an account of his engagement.

"So it seems I am to lose your company in the evening. I am sorry for
that, but I am glad you are so lucky."

"It was better than I expected," said Frank, with satisfaction.

"What sort of a man is this Mr. Wharton?" said Jasper.

"He is very kind and generous. I am lucky to have so good a friend.
There's only one thing that is likely to be disagreeable."

"What's that?"

"The housekeeper--her name is Mrs. Bradley--for some reason or other she
doesn't want me there."

"What makes you think so?"

"Her manner, and the way she speaks. She came in to read to Mr. Wharton
last evening, and didn't seem to like it because I had been taken in her
place."

"She is evidently jealous. You must take care not to offend her. She
might endeavor to have you dismissed."

"I shall always treat her politely, but I don't think I can ever like
her."

Meanwhile, the housekeeper, on leaving the library, had gone to her own