ppiness," she said, in a low tone.

"Have you quarrelled with Katherine, or offended her, that she is so
implacable?" asked Mrs. Ormonde.

"Neither, I hope. Now what are you doing in the way of amusement? Have
you seen a play since you came up? The pantomimes are still on at the
big theatres. But I want you to come and see _Ours_ at the Prince of
Wales on Thursday; it's very good in parts. Then if you'll sup with me
after, at my rooms, I'll get Carew and Brereton and one or two others to
meet you."

"It would be very nice!" exclaimed Mrs. Ormonde.

"Thank you," returned Katherine. "I am, strange to say, going to a party
on Thursday."

"To a party! How extraordinary! Where, Katherine?"

"To Lady Barrington's--a lady I knew in Florence, and who has invited me
repeatedly."

"I am sure I am very glad you are coming out of your shell at last.
Where does this Lady Barrington live?"

"In Lancaster Square, not far from my abode."

"Well, let us say Friday for _Ours_," said De Burgh; "for I too am going
to Lady Barrington's on Thursday."

"Then why did you invite us for that evening?" cried Mrs. Ormonde.

"I could have gone afterwards. Lady Barrington's gatherings are always
late."

"You really know every one."

"Oh, not every one, Mrs. Ormonde."

"Then our 'play' is not to come off unless Katherine is to be of the
party"--rather pettishly.

"If you like I will take you on Thursday, and Miss Liddell (if she will
allow me) on Friday."

"What nonsense! We will all go together on Friday. Katie, do you think
this friend of yours would invite me? I don't care to mope here when you
are out enjoying yourself."

"I am sure she would be very pleased to see you. I will write and ask
her for an invitation as soon as I go home." Katherine rose as she
spoke.

"Do, like a good girl; and I will go and interview this dressmaker of
yours. Till to-morrow, then."

The little woman stood on tiptoe to kiss her tall sister-in-law, who
left the room, followed by De Burgh.

"Haven't I been a reasonable, well-behaved fellow not to have haunted or
worried you all these months? Will you let me come and tell you how wise
and staid and prudent I have become?" he said.

He spoke half in jest, but there was a wonderfully appealing look in his
eyes.

"I am very glad to hear it, Mr. De Burgh. I hope you will go on and
prosper."

"And will you shut your doors against me if I call?"

"No; why should I?"

"Thanks! How heavenly i