"How well this pelisse becomes your beautiful figure, my child," said the hag, affecting not to notice Ellen's last observation.
"Cease this nonsense," cried Miss Monroe; "and tell me what brings you hither."
"To see you once more, my child."
"How did you discover my abode?"
"A pleasant question, forsooth!" ejaculated the hag. "Do you think that I am not well acquainted with all—yes, all that concerns you?" she added significantly.
"Alas! I am well aware that you know much—too much," said Ellen, with a profound sigh.
"Much!" repeated the hag. "I know all, I say,—even to the existence of the little one that will some day call you mother."
"Who told you that? Speak—who told you that?" demanded Ellen, greatly excited.
"It cannot matter—since I know it," returned the hag: "it cannot matter."
"One question," said Ellen,—"and I will ask you no more. Was Mr. Greenwood your informant?"