"I am delighted to have you at once, Lillian; you could not come too soon to please me, and you can always be sure of a welcome at the manor."
"Yes, with you, but I am not so sure of those sisters of yours."
Helen flushed. "Pray don't say that."
"Ah, my dear, don't let it trouble you. I rest quite content in your affection."
But whatever there was in Miss Stuart's words or tone, a shadow rested on Helen's face for some little while afterward.
Perhaps Lillian Stuart saw it, for, by and by, she began to speak again of the manor.
"You have no idea, Helen, how much I long to see your lovely home, nor with what pleasure I look forward to being with you, dearest."
"You are good to say so, Lillian, and I will do all in my power to make you happy."
"You will not have to try, dear, I am sure."
Miss Stuart rose and touched a bell. A quiet middle-aged woman answered it.