see old Maurice."

She turned her head away, that he might not see the angry color in her
cheeks, the trouble in her eyes, and when she spoke, it was to say
petulantly, "I wish Jasper and Mamma would leave me in peace. I hate
lovers and want none. If Frank teases, I'll go into a convent and so be
rid of him."

Maurice laughed, and turned her face toward himself, saying, in his
persuasive voice, "Give him a trial first, to please your mother. It can
do no harm and may amuse you. Frank is already lost, and, as you are
heart-whole, why not see what you can do for him? I shall have a new
study, then, and not miss you so much."

"You are very kind; I'll do my best. I wish Mrs. Snowdon would come, if
she is coming; I've an engagement at two, and Frank will look tragical
if I'm not ready. He is teaching me billiards, and I really like the
game, though I never thought I should."

"That looks well. I hope you'll learn a double lesson, and Annon find a
docile pupil in both."

"You are very pale this morning; are you in pain, Maurice?" suddenly
asked Octavia, dropping the tone of assumed ease and gaiety under which
she had tried to hide her trouble.

"Yes, but it will soon pass. Mrs. Snowdon is coming. I saw her at the
hall door a moment ago. I will show her the peacocks, if you want to go.
She won't mind the change, I dare say, as you don't like her, and I do."