subject named again—I have, after a violent quarrel with my aunt, resolved to quit your roof, and lead an independent life. I am afraid you will think me not only headstrong, but ungrateful. I assure you I am not. And do not be the least uneasy about me. I have my own very definite views about life—the life that it will best suit me to lead—a life in which there is no love-making, nor false protestations of devotion. Mr. Twisden will know where I am, but he will be under a solemn promise not to give my address to any one, and I entreat you to abstain from any attempt to follow me. It would be quite useless. My life will be a very retired one for some years, and for that I have, as you know, ample means at my command. You and Mr. Twisden will continue to manage my affairs.
"Believe me, my dear uncle, in spite of my seeming heartlessness in leaving Farley without other farewell than this,
Before sealing the large envelope which contained these letters, the girl got up and unlocked the door of the studio, which opened into her bedroom. The early morning light fell on the portrait of Rupert Wybrowe, as it stood near the window. For a few seconds she remained irresolute on the threshold; then, taking a penknife from her pocket, she walked deliberately up to the picture and cut it into shreds. She looked round to see if there was anything she should take with her, but deciding that the fewer impediments she had on
