that his stern spouse and the irate late fiance would arrive at
any moment, and reproach him for his want of strength.

At this juncture of the affair, Princess Urazov came forward, and
said with a gracious smile:

"Now I think you and I should agree with each other, sir; I had
just as great cause for surprise as you had at the news of my
brother's engagement to your niece, but I know and love him so
well that I did not question the wisdom of his choice. And as you
know and love your niece, can we not agree to try and make them
happy together by giving them our blessing? After all, it is no
crime for two young people to love each other!" and she put out
her hands, which Canon Ebley, who was, after all, longing for
peace, was obliged to take. Then with a charm and dignity that he
was forced to admire, she drew him to the pair and placed his hand
on their clasped hands, and her own over it.

"See," she said, "Sasha and Stella, we both wish you all happiness
and joy--is it not so?"

And Canon Ebley was constrained to murmur, "Yes."

At this instant the door was opened violently, and the Aunt
Caroline followed by the Reverend Eustace Medlicott burst into the
room, brushing aside the frightened waiter, who would have
prevented them; then they stopped dead short, petrified with
astonishment, and before she could prevent herself, Stella had
pealed a silvery laugh, while she rushed forward and
affectionately kissed her aunt.