"Read this," she said, in a choking voice, taking the note from her pocket. "Oh, if you knew how much I want to! Mayn't I, papa? do, dear papa, say yes."
"No, Elsie; it grieves me to deny you, but it must go back unopened.
Give it to me."
She put it into his hand and turned away with a sob.
"How did it come into your hands?" he inquired, going to her writing-desk for an envelope, pen and ink.
"Must I tell you, papa?" she asked; in a tone that spoke reluctance to give the information he required.
"Certainly."
"Simon gave it to me a few moments since."
He touched the bell, and, Chloe appearing in answer, bade her take that note to the house on the opposite side of the street.
"There is no message," he added; "it is directed to Mr. Egerton, and you have nothing to do but hand it in at the door."
"Yes, sah." And with a sorrowful, pitying glance at the wet eyes of her young mistress, the faithful old creature left the room.