plans which could not be communicated to you yet, and of my wishes."

"But I," said Edith, mildly, "wish you to understand that I have my own
wishes. You make use of a tone which I can not tolerate for a moment. I
have only one thing more to say, and that is to repeat my former
direction. I _must_ have Miss Plympton here tomorrow, and
preparations for her _must_ be made. Once for all, you must
understand that between you and me there is absolutely nothing in
common; and I tell you now that it is my intention to dispense with your
services at the earliest possible date. I will not detain you any
longer."

Saying this, she waved her hand toward the door, and then resumed her
seat.

As for Wiggins, he looked at her with his usual solemn gaze during these
remarks. His bowed form seemed to be bent more as he listened to her
words. When she ceased and sat down he stood listening still, as though
he heard some echo to her words. Edith did not look up, but turned her
eyes in another direction, and so did not see the face that was still
turned toward her. But if she had looked there she would have seen a
face which bore a deeper impress than ever of utter woe.

In a few moments he turned and left the room, as silently as he came.

Before retiring that night Edith called Mrs. Dunbar, and gave her some
directions about preparing another bedroom and the drawing-room. To her
orders, which were somewhat positive, Mrs. Dunbar listened in silence,
and merely bowed in reply.