[CHAPTER XXIX.]
At Mrs. Desmond's kindly-spoken words, Celine heaved a deep sigh and remained silent. The lady glanced up at her in some surprise.
"What is the matter, Celine?" she inquired. "Do you not think I am right to acknowledge my appreciation of her valuable services?"
The maid only sighed more deeply, casting down her eyes as if in great distress.
"I hope you are not jealous, Celine," continued her mistress. "You know I have given you many such testimonials of my favor."
"Yes, that you have, and I'm not jealous—not a bit, dear mistress," cried Celine; "but, oh, dear, oh, dear! that you should have been so cruelly deceived and betrayed."
"Celine, what do you mean?" asked the lady, disturbed.
"Oh, my dear lady, I hate to grieve you, but I can't bear to see you imposed upon any longer by that shameless girl! Oh, my dear mistress, where are your eyes that you can't see her disgrace? Oh, how I wish I had told all I knew at first!" cried Celine, wringing her hands, while tears fell from her eyes.
Mrs. Desmond sprang up and caught her by the arm excitedly.
"Speak! What is it that you know?" she cried, passionately. "Have I been deceived in Mary Smith?"