freshness and spring and youth. An ideal one for lovers, and not
at all the atmosphere for anger and strife. But these facts did
not enter into the consideration of three of the people, at least,
connected with our little comedy.

Eustace Medlicott woke more full of wrath than he had been the
night before, and, the moment he was dressed, proceeded to make
havoc with the peace of the Reverend Canon and Mrs. Ebley. He sent
up an urgent summons that they would see him immediately. Having
no sitting-room, he suggested the reading-room, which would be
empty at this hour.

The Aunt Caroline had experienced some misgivings herself at the
Embassy about her niece's absence with the foreign count, who had
risen to this distinctive appellation in her mind from "that
dreadful man," but she had felt it more prudent not to comment
upon her apprehensions to her niece. Eustace evidently had
discovered further cause of resentment and feminine curiosity
assisted her to dress with greater rapidity than usual.

The pair entered the room with grave faces and took two
uncomfortable chairs.

The Reverend Mr. Medlicott remained standing, and soon, from his
commanding position, let them hear his version of the hated
foreigner's communications. They were duly horrified and surprised
and then Mrs. Ebley bridled a little--after all, it was the
behavior of her own niece upon which aspersion was being cast.

"I am certain, Eustace, the man must be mad--I assure you, Stella