She hastily crumpled the note, and thrust it into her pocket just as
Jacquelina's quizzical face looked over her shoulder.
"You're going to stay all day with me, Marian?"
"Yes, love—that is, till after dinner. Then I shall have to beg of Mrs.
Waugh the use of the carriage to go home."
"Well, then, I will ride with you, Marian, and return in the carriage."
All the company, with the exception of Mrs. Waugh, Marian and
Jacquelina, had left the breakfast-room.
Mrs. Waugh was locking her china closet, and when she had done, she took her bunch of keys, and turning to Marian, said:
"Hebe, dear, I want you to go with me and see poor old Cracked Nell. She is staying in one of our quarters. I think she has not long to live, and I want you to talk to her."
"Now?"
"Yes, dear, I am going to carry her some breakfast. So, come along, and get your mantle," said the good woman, passing out through the door.
Marian followed, drawing out her pocket handkerchief to tie over her head; and as she did so, the note, unperceived by her, fluttered out, and fell upon the carpet.