"I think," exclaimed Lady Marchmont, "that Alice's wish is the most rational of all. Well, girl, success to your coach-and-six."
"And I wish," said a venerable old lady, who, unperceived, had joined the young circle, "that you would all come into the house—for the evening is growing damp, and supper is ready."
"My dear Mrs. Churchill," said Lady Marchmont, taking her hand, and respectfully kissing it, "you must not fancy that this is a farewell visit. I came hither to-night, for I did not know what to do with myself. The way of the world—I have had all I wanted, and must go."
"Just come in," said Mrs. Churchill, "and take one glass of my mead."
"No—not even such a golden promise tempts me. I am afraid that Lord Marchmont will be at home before me—and he is not yet accustomed to be kept waiting."
"I would not, on any account, detain you—but come and see us to-morrow," said the old lady, kindly.
Waving her hand, Henrietta ran rapidly down
