"Ah, not to become engaged before the year was out. Tell her that I absolve her from that promise, and—ask her again."
Maurice found that under these conditions Lesley's answer was all that could be desired.
CHAPTER XLI.
VALE!
"Now that Ethel has gone to the sea-side, I can have you to myself a little while," said Lady Alice to her daughter.
"Poor Ethel! But it is delightful to have you here, mamma: it is so home-like and comfortable."
"Ah, you will soon have to make a home for somebody else!"
Lesley grew red, but smiled. "We won't think of that yet," she said softly. "Mamma, I want to speak to you on a very serious subject."
"Well, my darling?"