subject. She spoke with pleasure
of her niece's decision thought it wise; abounded in happy prophecy;
through the rest of the day she had a face which spoke relief, all but
contentment. The morning of Sunday saw her nervous. She made an excuse
of the slightly clouded sky for lingering within doors; she went often
to the window and looked this way and that along the road, as if
judging the weather, until Irene, when the church bells had ceased,
grew impatient for the open air.

"Yes, we will go," said her aunt. "I think we safely may."

Each went to her room to make ready. At Mrs. Hannaford's door, just as
she was about to come forth, there sounded a knock; the servant
announced that a gentleman had called to see her--Mr. Otway. Quivering,
death-pale, she ran to the sitting-room. Irene had not yet reappeared.
Piers Otway stood there alone.

"You didn't get my telegram?" broke from her lips, in a hurried
whisper. "Oh! I feared it would be too late, and all is too late."

"You mean----"

"The engagement is announced."

She had time to say no more. At that moment Irene entered the room,
dressed for walking. At first she did not seem to recognise the
visitor, then her face lighted up; she smiled, subdued the slight
embarrassment which had succeeded to her perplexity, and stepped
quickly forward.

"Mr. Otway! You are staying here?"

"A few hours only. I came down yesterday on business--which is
finished."

His voice was so steady, his bearing so self-possessed, that Irene
found herself relieved from the immediate restraint of the situation.
She could not quite understand his presence here; there was a mystery,
in which she saw that her aunt was involved; the explanation might be
forthcoming after their visitor's departure. For the moment, enough to
remark that the sun was dispersing the clouds, and that all were ready
to enjoy a walk. Mrs. Hannaford, glancing anxiously at Irene before she
spoke, hoped that Mr. Otway would return with them to lunch; Irene
added her voice to the invitation; and Piers at once accepted.

Talk suggested by the locality occupied them until they were away from
the houses; by that time Irene had thoroughly reassured herself, and
was as tranquil in mind as in manner. Whatever the meaning of Piers
Otway's presence, no difficulty could come about in the few hours he
was to spend with them. Involuntarily she found herself listening to
the rhythm of certain verses which she had received some