"Abroad,--that crotchet of yours again! You are quite mistaken; in fact,
the lady is in London. It was for her effects that I went to the
station. Oh, don't be jealous; quite elderly."

"Jealous, my dear Jasper! you forget. I am as your mother. One of your
letters, then, announced this lady's intended arrival; you were in
correspondence with this--elderly lady."

"Why, not exactly in correspondence. But when I left Paris I gave the
General Post Office as my address to a few friends in France. And this
lady, who took an interest in my affairs (ladies, whether old or young,
who have once known me, always do), was aware that I had expectations
with respect to the child. So some days ago, when I was so badly off,
I wrote a line to tell her that Sophy had been no go, and that, but for a
dear friend (that is you), I might be on the pave. In her answer, she
said she should be in London as soon as I received her letter; and gave
me an address here at which to learn where to find her when arrived,--
a good old soul, but strange to London. I have been very busy, helping
her to find a house, recommending tradesmen, and so forth. She likes
style, and can afford it. A pleasant house enough, but our quiet
evenings here spoil me for anything else. Now get on your bonnet, and
let me see you off."

"On one condition, my dear Jasper,--that you stay here till I return."

Jasper made a wry face. But, as it was near dinner-time and he never
wanted for appetite, he at length agreed to employ the interval of her
absence in discussing a meal, which experience had told him Mrs. Crane's
new cook would, not unskilfully, though hastily, prepare. Mrs. Crane
left him to order the dinner, and put on her shawl and bonnet. But,