Mrs. Sutton could scarcely restrain her tearful remonstrances

against what was, to her perception, an act of arbitrary and wanton

cruelty, and other spectators had their views upon the subject.

"Very inconsiderate in Aylett! I wonder how he would like the same

game to be played upon himself!" commented Alfred, aside, to his

Dulcinea.

Her lip curled in disdainful amusement.

"As if he had ever done an inconsiderate thing since he put off long

clothes! There is method in all this, if we were clever enough to

fathom it."

Within herself, she determined that she would solve the enigma

before she was a week older.

Frederic cast one hasty, eager look at the portico, as the carriage

turned out of the yard. Mabel stood in the foreground, her figure

framed by the climbing roses drooping over the front steps. She was

very pale, and, forgetful for the moment of the observation of the

bystanders, leaned slightly forward, her eyes strained upon the

carriage-window--one hand laid upon her heart, the other resting

against the pillar nearest her, as for support. She waved her

handkerchief, in response to his smile and lifted hat, and

simultaneously with this interchange of adieux her brother took her

by the arm.

"You are getting wet there, Mabel! Come into the house! It is well I

have come back to look after you!"




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