"You said he had another reason for remaining so long, did you not,
Maria?"
"Oh, yes, and one palpable enough to any person who has eyes. Just look
yonder, and you will see for yourself."
Mr. Bernard involuntarily raised his eyes, and glanced at the spot
indicated. At a side-table, a little apart from the others, Agnes was
seated, looking over a large and elegant portfolio, the peculiar
beauties of whose admirable engravings, Ernest Clifford seemed eagerly
pointing out, as he bent over her chair; his handsome countenance lit up
with a smile of pleasurable emotion.
"Ah, yes, I understand you now, Maria. But I heard Mr. Bernard had some
partiality that way."
"Hush, speak lower, for he is standing at the table near you."
"Oh, dear me, I had no idea he was so handy."
"That was mere idle gossip, I assure you," was the reply, as the tones
sank into a whisper. "I have the best evidence in the world as to that."
"Well, well, they will make a handsome couple, I must say," remarked
Maria's companion, as Mr.
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