spoken of all at once. There was some little increase of caution
between them as Herbert's name was mentioned, so that gradually each
knew what the other thought; but for weeks, that was all. Then at
last the mother spoke out.

"Isa," she said, "I think that Herbert Onslow is becoming attached
to you."

"He has never said so, mamma."

"No; I am sure he has not. Had he done so, you would have told me.
Nevertheless, is it not true?"

"Well, mamma, I cannot say. It may be so. Such an idea has
occurred to me, but I have abandoned it as needless. If he has
anything to say he will say it."

"And if he were to speak, how should you answer him?"

"I should take time to think. I do not at all know what means he
has for a separate establishment." Then the subject was dropped
between them for that time, and Isa, in her communications with her
cousin, was somewhat more reserved than she had been.

"Isa, are you in love with Herbert?" Agnes asked her, as they were
together in their room one night.

"In love with him? No; why should I be in love with him?"

"I think he is in love with you," said Agnes.