"I am sorry she has betrayed what passed. I hoped you would never suspect the distressing facts."
"When a girl deliberately defies parental wishes and counsel, and scorns the advice and expostulation of those whom experience has taught something of life and the world, her fate sooner or later is sad as Olga's. A foolish caprice which young ladies invariably denominate 'love,' but which is generally merely flattered vanity, not unfrequently wrecks a woman's entire life; and though Olga will rally after a time, she cannot forget this humiliating episode, which has blighted the brightest epoch of her existence. Her rash, blind obstinacy has cost her very dear. Here, let us go out; I want you to walk awhile."
They had entered the Park, and, ordering the driver to await them at a specified spot, Mr. Palma turned into the Ramble. For some moments they walked in silence, and finally he pointed to a rustic seat somewhat secluded, and beyond the observation of the few persons strolling through the grounds. Regina sat with her muff in her lap, and her bare hands nervously toying with her white silk tassel. Her guardian noticed the tremulousness of her lip, and at that moment the sun, smiting the ring on her finger, kindled the tiny diamonds into a circle of fire. Mr. Palma drew off his gloves, put them in his pocket, and just touched the opal, saying coldly:
"Is that a recent gift from your mother? I never saw you wear it until the night you bathed poor Olga's forehead."
"No, sir."
Involuntarily she laid her palm over the jewels that was beginning to grow odious in her own sight.
"May I inquire how long it has been in your possession?"
"Since before I left the parsonage. I had it when I came to New
York."
"Why then have you never worn it?"
"What interest can such a trifle possess for you, sir?"