Madge went upstairs, opened her sister's door noiselessly, saw that
she was not awake, and returned. When breakfast was over she rose,
and after walking up and down the room once or twice, seated herself
in the armchair by her mother's side. Her mother drew herself a
little nearer, and took Madge's hand gently in her own.

'Madge, my child, have you nothing to say to your mother?'

'Nothing.'

'Cannot you tell me why Frank and you have parted? Do you not think
I ought to know something about such an event in the life of one so
close to me?'

'I broke off the engagement: we were not suited to one another.'

'I thought as much; I honour you; a thousand times better that you
should separate now than find out your mistake afterwards when it is
irrevocable. Thank God, He has given you such courage! But you must
have suffered--I know you must;' and she tenderly kissed her
daughter.

'Oh, mother! mother!' cried Madge, 'what is the worst--at least to--
you--the worst that can happen to a woman?'

Mrs Hopgood did not speak; something presented itself which she
refused to recognise, but she shuddered. Before she could recover
herself Madge broke out again, -