obtrude it on the company in general. The day passed pleasantly, but
in Miss Derrick's opinion, rather soberly. Doing her best to
fascinate Mr. Bilton, she felt a slight disappointment at her
inability to engross his attention, and at the civil friendliness
which he thought a sufficient reply to her gay sallies. For so
good-looking and well-dressed a man he struck her as singularly
reserved. But perhaps he was "engaged"; yes, that must be the
explanation. When the guests had left, she put a plain question to
Mrs. Mumford.

'I don't _think_ he is engaged,' answered Emmeline, who on the whole
was satisfied with Miss Derrick's demeanour throughout the day.

'Oh! But, of course, he _may_ be, without you knowing it. Or is it
always made known?'

'There's no rule about it, my dear.'

'Well, they're very nice people,' said Louise, with a little sigh.
'And I like your sister so much. I'm glad she asked me to go and see
her. Is Mr. Bilton often at her house?--Don't misunderstand me, Mrs.
Mumford. It's only that I _do_ like men's society; there's no harm,
is there? And people like Mr. Bilton are very different from those
I've known; and I want to see more of them, you know.'

'There's no harm in saying that to _me_, Louise,' replied Mrs.
Mumford. 'But pray be careful not to seem "forward." People
think--and say--such disagreeable things.'

Miss Derrick was grateful, and again gave an assurance that repose