“I cannot understand you, Ada. Why do you speak to me so harshly? What unkindness have I been guilty of, and so recently?” She stopped, her eyes fell, a thought seemed to strike her.
“Have I said anything to hurt you?”
Ada made a nervous movement, then spoke more calmly.
“I should not allow anything you say to influence my actions. Will you please tell me what I wish to know?”
“I shall offer no opposition of that kind,” Isabel said. “You are old enough to think and act for yourself. If you had come and told me of this in a friendly way I should no doubt have used the privilege of my age and experience——”
“To tell me what you have already on several occasions said indirectly,” broke in the girl, again passionate. “Thank you; I can make all such reflections for myself.”
“I think you are unjust to me, Ada,” said Mrs. Clarendon, in a lowered voice. Her fingers were now grasping the chair, instead of resting upon it. “When you have had time to reflect I am sure you will speak to me differently.”
Ada stood silent.
“You propose to be married shortly?” Isabel asked, joining her hands together before her.
“As soon as will suit your convenience, Mrs. Clarendon.”