The Hackets' married
sister was a neighbour of Bessie's married sister, and through these
ladies it had just come round, not only who was the author of
'Charlie's Whistle,' etc., but that she wrote in the ---- Magazine, and
was in the neighbourhood.
All offences seemed to be forgotten in the burning desire for an
introduction to this marvel of success. Constance had made the most of
her opportunities in gazing at church; but if she called, would she be
introduced?
'Of course,' said Gillian, 'if my cousin is in the room.' She spoke
rather coldly and gravely, and Miss Hacket exclaimed--
'I know we have been a little remiss, my dear, I hope Lady Merrifield
was not offended.'
'Mamma is never offended,' said Gillian--'but, I do think, and so would
she and all of us, that if Constance comes, she ought to treat Dolores
Mohun--as--as usual.'
The two sisters were silent, perhaps from sheer amazement at this
outbreak of Gillian's, who had never seemed particularly fond of her
cousin. Gillian was quite as much surprised at herself, but something
seemed to drive her on, with flaming cheeks. 'Dolores is half broken-
hearted about it all. She did not thoroughly know how wrong it was;
and it does make her miserable that the one who went along with her in
it should turn against her, and cut her and all.'
'Connie never meant to keep it up, I'm sure,' said Miss Hacket; 'but
she was very much hurt.'
'So was Dolly,' said Gillian.
'Is she so fond of me?' said Constance, in a softened tone.
Pages:
301
302
303
304
305
306
307
308
309
310
311
312
313
314
315
316
317
318
319
320
321
322
323
324
325