dness. I know that other men when they are engaged do not
trouble themselves with constant letter-writing. Even Theodore, who,
according to Cecilia, is perfect, would not write to her then very
often; and now, when he is away, his letters are only three lines. I
suppose you are teaching me not to be exacting. If so, I will kiss the
rod like a good child; but I feel it the more because the lesson has not
come soon enough."

Then she went on in her usual strain, telling him of what she had done,
what she had read and what she had thought. There was no suspicion in
her letters no fear, no hint at jealousy. And she should have no further
cause for jealousy! One of the two must be sacrificed, and it was most
fitting that Julia should be the sacrifice. Julia should be
sacrificed--Julia and himself! But still he could not write to Florence
till he had written to Julia. He could not bring himself to send soft,
pretty, loving words to one woman while the other was still regarding
him as her affianced lover.

"Was your letter from Florence this morning?" Fanny asked.

"Yes; it was."

"Had she received mine?"

"I don't know. Of course she had. If you sent it by post of course she
got it."

"She might have mentioned it, perhaps."

"I daresay she did. I don't remember."

"Well, Harry you need not be cross with me because I love the girl who
is going to be your wife. You would not like it if I did not care about
her."

"I hate being called cross."

"Suppose I were to say that I hated your being cross. I'm sure I do; and
you are going away to-morrow, too. You have hardly said a nice word to
me since you have been home."

Harry threw himself back into a chair almost in despair. He was not
enough a hypocrite to say nice words when his heart within him was not
at ease. He could not bring himself to pretend that things were
pleasant.

"If you are in trouble, Harry, I will not go on teasing you."

"I am in trouble," he said.

"And cannot I help you?"

"No; you cannot help me. No one can help me. But do not ask any
questions."

"Oh, Harry! is it about money?"

"No, no; it has nothing to do with money."

"You have not really quarrelled with Florence?"

"No; I have not quarrelled with her at all. But I will not answer more
questions. And, Fanny, do not speak of this to my father or mother. It
will be over before long, and then, if possible, I will tell you."

"Harry, you are not going to fight with Hugh?"

"Fight