particular.
Bur Lupex has become dreadful jealous during the last week,
and we all knew that something was coming. She is an artful
woman, but I don't think she meant anything bad,--only to
drive her husband to desperation. He came here yesterday in
one of his tantrums, and wanted to see Cradell; but he got
frightened, and took his hat and went off. Now, that wasn't
quite right. If he was innocent, why didn't he stand his
ground and explain the mistake? As mother says, it gives
the house such a name. Lupex swore last night that he'd be
off to the Income-tax Office this morning, and have Cradell
out before the commissioners, and clerks, and everybody. If
he does that, it will get into the papers, and all London
will be full of it. She would like it. I know; for all she
cares for is to be talked about; but only think what it
will be for mother's house. I wish you were here; for your
high prudence and courage would set everything right at
once,--at least, I think so.

I shall count the minutes till I get an answer to this, and
shall envy the postman who will have your letter before it
will reach me. Do write at once. If I do not hear by Monday
morning I shall think that something is the matter. Even
though you are among your dear old friends, surely you can
find a moment to write to your own Amelia.

Mother is very unhappy about this affair of the Lupexes.
She says that if you were here to advise her she should not
mind it so much. It is very hard upon her, for she does
strive to make the house respectable and comfortable for
everybody. I would send my duty and love to your dear
mamma, if I only knew her, as I hope I shall do one day,
and to your sister, and to L. D. also, if you like to tell
her how we are situated together. So, now, no more from
your

Always affectionate sweetheart,

AMELIA ROPER.

Poor Eames did not feel the least gratified by any part of this fond
letter; but the last paragraph of it was the worst. Was it to be
endured by him that this woman should send her love to his mother
and to his sister, and even to Lily Dale! He felt that there was a
pollution in the very mention of Lily's name by such an one as Amelia
Roper. And yet Amelia Roper was, as she had assured him,--his own.
Much as he disliked her at the present moment, he did believe that he
was--her own. He did feel that she had obtaine