"Pamela!" with oddly upraised eyebrows.
"Yes—Pamela. I have stayed away as long as I could. I promised Lord Glengall I would give her time."
"Oh! that is how it is, is it?"
"Yes; didn't you know?"
"I guessed, of course, but Pam is not the old Pam. She has been as solemn as an owl, and as secretive, ever since.... When was it?... I really think it began about the time of your going away. She used to be the best of good company."
"What is this for, Miss Sylvia?" said the young man, touching her black frock.
"Ah! You do not know. Miss Spencer died a month ago."
"I am sorry," he said, with a sympathy which at once made Sylvia his friend.
"Does Pam know you are coming?" she asked.
"No. I was afraid to announce myself. Perhaps she will show me the door."