was assiduous in serving and amusing the "dear convalescent," as she
called him. But the general did not sleep; he too watched and waited,
longing yet dreading to speak, and hoping that this was but a harmless
freak of Edith's, for her caprices were many, and till now he had
indulged them freely. This hesitation disgusted the major, who, being a
bachelor, knew little of women's ways, and less of their powers of
persuasion. The day before New Year he took a sudden resolution, and
demanded a private interview with the general.

"I have come on an unpleasant errand, sir," he abruptly began, as the
old man received him with an expression which rather daunted the major.
"My friendship for Lady Treherne, and my guardianship of her children,
makes me jealous of the honor of the family. I fear it is in danger,
sir; pardon me for saying it, but your wife is the cause."

"May I trouble you to explain, Major Royston" was all the general's
reply, as his old face grew stern and haughty.

"I will, sir, briefly. I happen to know from Jasper that there were love
passages between Miss Dubarry and himself a year or more ago in Paris. A
whim parted them, and she married. So far no reproach rests upon either,
but since she came here it has been evident to others as well as myself
that Jasper's affection has revived, and that Mrs. Snowdon does not
reject and reprove it as she should. They often meet, and from Jasper's
manner I am convinced that mischief is afloat. He is ardent, headstrong,
and utterly regardless of the world's opinion in some cases. I have
watched them, and what I tell you is true."

"Prove it."