"It is cheerless in this room. If you will come with me I will take you
where you can he more comfortable."

Saying this, she led the way out, and Edith followed, feeling a little
perplexed at Mrs. Dunbar's manner, and trying to understand how it was
that she was so identified with Wiggins. She thought she could see an
evident kindliness toward herself, but how that could coexist with the
treatment which she had received at the gates was rather a puzzle.

Mrs. Dunbar led the way up to the second story, and along a corridor
toward the right wing. Here she came to a room in the front of the house
which looked out upon the park, and commanded an extensive view. There
was a well-furnished bedroom off this room, to which Mrs. Dunbar at once
led her.

"If we had only received notice that you were coming," said she, "you
would have met with a better reception."

Edith said nothing, for once more the word "we" jarred unpleasantly upon
her.

"Shall you have any objection to occupy this room for to-night?" asked
Mrs. Dunbar.

"Thank you," said Edith, "none whatever; but I should like very much to
have my luggage. It was taken back to Dalton."

"Taken back?"

"Yes. Miss Plympton was not admitted, and my luggage was on the coach."