Claire hesitated. "I did not then think it was wrong to conceal it from her," she said, finally; "but now, if you think it best, I will try and tell her."
"But I do not think it best, my darling. I should have been convinced of his identity even had I not used the picture as a test. We will say nothing on that subject. And now, let us go down-stairs, for we have work to do!"
So saying, she led the way from the room and Claire followed, wondering how all this was to end.
CHAPTER XLV.
MRS. RALSTON'S STORY.
Mrs. Ralston entered the drawing-room with the light of a new and strong purpose shining in her eyes.
"Dear friends," she said, "sit near me and give me your attention. I have a story to tell, and I must not fatigue myself too much in the telling."
Without a word, Clarence moved forward an easy chair. As she seated herself, they all grouped about her with grave, expectant faces.
"I will make brief mention of myself," said the lady, sinking back in the luxurious chair with a slightly weary smile. "My life has never been a bright one. Married for the first time at the age of sixteen, my childhood was prematurely blighted, and my first real trouble fell upon me. It was not a happy marriage, and during the years of my first husband's life, I became more and more alienated from my relatives.