that he loves me and wishes to marry
me, and that you have refused your consent, partly because of the
history of my family, but chiefly because my type displeases you. I
believe, in days gone by, the prerogative of a great noble like you was
to dispense justice. In my case it is still your prerogative by
courtesy, and I ask it of you. When we have talked for a little, if you
then hold to your opinion of me, and _convince me_ that it is for your
brother's happiness, I swear to you on my word of honor I will never see
him again."

"Believe me,

"Yours faithfully,

"EVANGELINE TRAVERS."

I put it hastily in the envelope and fastened it up. Then I rang the bell,
and had it sent by a messenger in a cab, who was to wait for an answer.
Oh, I wonder if in life I shall ever have to go through another
twenty-five minutes like those that passed before the waiter brought a
note up to me in reply.

Even if the journal won't shut I must put it in:

"VAVASOUR HOUSE, ST. JAMES'S

"_November 28th._
"DEAR MADAM,--

"I have received your letter, and request you to excuse my
calling upon you at your hotel this evening, as I am unwell;
but if you will do me the honor to come to Vavasour House on
receipt of this, I will discuss the matter in question with
you, and trust you will believe that you may rely upon my
_justice_.

"I remain, madam,

"Yours truly,

"TORQUILSTONE."

"His grace's brougham is waiting below for you, madam," the waiter said,
and I flew to Veronique.

I got her to dress me quickly. I wore the same things, exactly, as he had
seen me in before--deep mourning they are, and extremely becoming.

In about ten minutes Veronique and I were seated in the brougham and
rolling on our way. I did not speak.

I was evidently expected, for as the carriage stopped the great doors flew
open and I could see into the dim and splendid hall.

A silver-haired, stately old servant led me along through a row of
powdered footmen, down a passage all dimly lit with heavily shaded lights.
(Veronique was left to their mercies.) Then the old man opened a door, and
without announcing my name, merely, "The lady,