the disinterestedness of your love for him? And as for the
difference of rank--well, it does not matter in the least. Drake's rank
is so high that he may marry whom he pleases; and he is so rich that
money does not come into the question."

"It is King Cophetua and the beggar maid," murmured Nell.

"If you like; but there is not much of the beggar maid about you, dear,"
retorted the countess, holding Nell at arm's length and scanning the
refined and lovely face, the slim and graceful form in its plain morning
frock. "No, my dear; there is nothing wrong about the affair, excepting
the extraordinary misunderstanding which parted you for a time, and
brought you so much unhappiness. But all that is past now, and you and
he must learn to forget it. And now, my dear, I want you to come up with
me to the Hall."

But Nell shook her head.

"I can't do that, countess," she said. "I can't leave Mr. Falconer. He
is much better and stronger this morning; the nurse says that he slept
all night, for the first time; but he still needs me--and--I owe him so
much!" she added in a low voice.

The countess looked at her keenly for a moment; then she nodded.

"I see. Drake told me that I should find you harder to move than you
look. And I am not sure that you are not right," she said. "When you
come to stay at the Hall it will be as mistress." Nell's face crimsoned
again. "But, my dear girl, we can't pass over the great event as if it
were of no consequence. Drake's engagement, under any circumstances,
would be of the deepest interest to all of us, to the whole country; but
his engagement to you will create a profound sensation, and we must
demonstrate our satisfaction in some way. I'm afraid you will have to
face a big dinner party."

Nell looked rather frightened.

"Oh!" she breathed. "Is--is it necessary? Can't we just go on as if--as
if nothing had happened?"

The countess laughed.

"That's exactly what Drake said when I spoke to him about it last night.
It is nice to find you so completely of one mind. But I'm afraid it
wouldn't do. You see, my dear, the people will want to see you, to be
introduced to you; and if we pursue the usual course there will be much
less talk and curiosity than if we let things slide. Yes, you will have
to run the gauntlet; but I don't think you need be apprehensive of the
result," and she looked at her with affectionate approval.

"Very well," said Nell resignedly. "You know what is best, and I