"Do you know who Lady Burville is?"
"I know nothing about her, miss, save she's a patient of Mr. Allen's."
"Then I'll tell you, Mrs. Tice: she is my mother."
The housekeeper's ruddy face paled, and she sat down on the nearest chair.
"Your mother, Miss Carew! Are you sure?"
"I am certain. Lady Burville informed me of the relationship, and told me her story."
"In that case," said Mrs. Tice with emphasis, "you know now why a marriage between you and Mr. Allen is impossible."
"That is just what I do not know," was Dora's reply. "My mother did not tell me all her story. Now, I want you to relate what she kept hidden."
"Tell me what you have heard, miss, and I'll see," said Mrs. Tice, after a pause.
"Very good," said Dora, taking a seat near the old dame. "I'll tell my story, you will tell yours, and between us we may save Allen's life."