"Then you are greatly mistaken," said Lena, obstinately.
"My dear child," continued her mother, "consider all you are losing. If you meet Maltravers in Paris, you can get married, for he has no wife alive now, and go and live in Switzerland, or some quiet place, till this affair has blown over."
"Never!"
At this moment Alfred Vanhoosen, who had been absent in Albany for some little time, entered the room.
His presence was unexpected, but it was as welcome as the flowers in May to Lena, who dearly loved her brother.
She knew that he was at all times her friend and her protector.
"Alfred!" she exclaimed, grasping his hand, "I am so glad to see you!"
"And I to see you, sis. Mamma, how are you?"
"Ailing, my dear," replied Mrs. Vanhoosen. "My head has troubled me very much since you have been away."
"Sorry for that. What have you got in your hand, sissy?"