a note respectfully, and then went on his way without a word.

How agreeable it must be to have well-trained servants to do one's
bidding like that! she thought, and then went back eagerly to her
window to read the missive. It had no beginning or date, and was
just a few lines.

I have observed the whole situation, and judged of the character
of your fiance. I know how you feel. Do not be depressed--remain
calm and trust me, circumstances can always be directed in the
hands of a strong man. I will have the honor to be presented to
you and to your family soon after you arrive at the Embassy to-
night. All is well.

There was no signature, and the writing was rather large and
unlike any she had seen before.

Suddenly her feeling of unrest left her, and a lightness of heart
took its place. She was living, at all events, and the horizon was
not all gray. It seemed almost delightful to be putting on a real
evening dress presently, even though it was a rather homely white
thing with a pink sash, and to be going down to the restaurant in
it with Aunt Caroline in front in her best black velvet and point
lace.

That lady's desire to be in time at the party alone determined her
to this breach of the rules--and there were Eustace and Uncle
Erasmus in their stiff clerical evening coats awaiting them in the
corridor--while, as luck would have it, the lift stopped at the
second floor to admit the Russian. He got in with his usual air of