'You had better leave it alone.'
'Do you forbid me?'
'Why, no, for I don't think you have the face to say anything that would distress her, or disturb the friendship which has been her greatest benefit.'
'Thank you. All I intend is, that if it should be as I suppose, the poor things should not miss coming to an understanding for want—'
'Of a Christmas-tree,' said James, laughing. 'You may have your own way. I have too much confidence in your discretion and in theirs to imagine that you will produce the least effect.'
Isabel's imagination was busily at work, and she was in haste to make use of her husband's permission; but it was so difficult to see Clara alone, that some days passed before the two sisters were left together in the sitting-room, while James was writing a letter for his uncle. Isabel's courage began to waver, but she ventured a commencement.
'Mr. Dynevor entertains me with fine stories of your conquests, Clara.'
Clara laughed, blushed, and answered bluntly, 'What a bother it was!'
'You are very hard-hearted.'
'You ought to remember the troubles of young ladyhood enough not to wonder.'