Mrs. Aylmer, as she watched her flit about the room, and listened to her gay conversation, and observed her animated face, said to herself: "A more charming companion could not fall to the lot of any woman. Now what is the matter, Bertha?" she said. "Your face quite amuses me; you burst out into little ripples of laughter at the smallest provocation. That dress is extremely becoming; it is a pleasure to see you. What is it, my dear? Have you heard any specially good news?"
"I have heard this news, and I think we ought both to be very happy," said Bertha. "Mr. Trevor comes home this evening; he will be with us to dinner."
Mrs. Aylmer gave her companion a keen, searching glance.
"Miss Keys," she said slowly.
"Yes," said Bertha, pausing and laying her hand lightly on a little table near; "do you want me to do anything?"
"Nothing in especial: you are always doing things for me. You are a good girl and a valuable secretary to me; you suit me to perfection. Now, my dear, I have no wish to part with you."
"To part with me?" said Bertha. She looked startled and raised her curious greeny-grey eyes with a new expression in them.
"To part with you, Bertha; but if you set your heart on Mr. Maurice Trevor you and I must part."
"What does this mean? Do you want to insult me?"
"No, my dear, by no means; but girls will be girls. How old are you, Miss Keys?"