er
again, but I thought I ought to be happy. I have been so wretched.
That night when you thought I had toothache--"

"I know. But I was afraid it was that. But, Lettice, if you are not
satisfied it is not too late even now. You could tell Mr Newcome."

But Lettice gave a shriek of dismay. "Oh, never, never! I daren't even
think of it, Norah. The house is ready--all the furniture--my dresses--
the wedding presents! I could never, never break it off. Poor Arthur
would be broken-hearted, too, and his mother would be so angry; she
would never let Madge speak to me again. Oh, no! I feel better already
for talking to you. I get nervous, and imagine things that are not
true. I shall be very happy--of course I shall be happy. Arthur is so
kind--and the house is so pretty. Don't look so miserable, Norah dear;
indeed, indeed, I shall be all right."

"I hope so; but, Lettice, do think well over it while there is time. It
would be terrible to have to break off your engagement now; but, at the
worst, all the gossip and upset would be over in two or three months,
and if you married it would be for your whole life. Father would be
angry, but I would help you. I would stay with you, Lettice, and help
you every minute of the time."

"I know you would, I know you would." Lettice spoke in a quick,
breathless whisper; her eyes were fixed as if she were a prisoner
looking through the barred window and trying to summon up courage to
escape--then a shudder shook the slight shoulders, and she jumped up,
holding out her hands with a gesture of dismay.

"Oh no, no! Don't talk of anything so dreadful. Arthur is coming on
Saturday, and I shall be quite happy. I am dull because I have not seen
him for so long, but you will see how bright I am when he is here! I
was very weak and foolish to speak as I did, but I can trust you, Norah.
You have promised not to tell."

"Yes, I have promised." Poor Norah was only too willing to be
convinced, and surely what Lettice said was reasonable enough. She
would wait, at any rate, until Saturday before making any further
attempt to persuade her sister to a step which must bring so much
suffering and humiliation in its train.

Two days later the bridegroom arrived. Lettice went to the station to
meet him. A very handsome couple they looked as they drove up to the
door, Mr Newcome immaculate as ever despite the long, dusty journey,
and so large and impressive, that Norah was quit