It was a fine day, and, left to herself, the lady prepared to go out for a short walk when a visitor was announced.
She went down to the parlor to see who it was, and was nearly struck dumb to behold Frederic Vernon.
CHAPTER XVIII.
VERNON PLAYS THE PENITENT.
"What, you!" cried Mrs. Vernon, when she could speak.
"Yes, aunt," replied Frederic Vernon awkwardly. "I suppose you didn't expect to see me."
"I certainly did not." And the lady sank in a chair.
"Aren't you going to shake hands with me?"
He came to her side and held out his hand, and she grasped it mechanically.
"When did you come over?" she asked.