r" and she
pointed to the richly cushioned seat as she spoke.

Helen lay back in the seat and putting her hands behind her head she
gazed wistfully round the room.

"Well Helen" laughed Gladys "are you longing to see my other rooms?"

"Oh no" replied Helen sadly, "this is quite lovely enough thank you,
but Gladys darling do pray tell me what your parents said in the
letter."

"Oh yes" said Gladys, and jumping up she opened a handsome little
morocoo writing desk and took from it a sheet of writing paper closely
written.

"This is it" she said sadly "I'll read it to you Helen, it makes me so
miserable."

Helen listened attentively while Gladys read in a most plaintive voice
the following letter:

"Speerin House
Endup Road,
Norwich.
Oct. 17th.

MY DEAR GLADYS,

As may be imagined your foolish letter caused both
your father and I great displeasure. We both
consider your suspicions concerning James Palsey
totally unfounded, and from what you say we think
our niece Helen Winston must be a very foolish
girl to put such notions into your head. Of course
we pity her very much, as no doubt it is very sad
to have one's father murdered, but to tell you the
truth we think she must be a little off her head.
(Violent exclamations from Helen). Referring to
your letter again I see that you are determined
not to Marry James. Now Gladys you must see for
yourself how very nonsensical this idea is. James
has every means of making you happy and what is
more he is very very rich and is by no means
stingy with his money, as proof the lodgings you
are now in. I am sure he loves you very
passionately and he is both truthful and
honourable; (sarcastic smiles from both Helen and
Gladys), and what is the use of forsaking this
good man, whom you know and ourght to love, for
some horrible scrapegrace whom you choose to
consider faithful? Think over what I have said to
you and try and change your mind as regards James.
If you resolve to marry him your father and I are
quite willing for it to take place at