CHAPTER IX.
THE LAST.
The Saturday after the event last recorded, Kate was bending sadly enough over her daily task, reading the Court Circular to Mrs. Jorrocks—her thoughts wandering to some letters from Lady Desmond, and from nurse, which she had not had the heart to answer.
"The Countess of P——, is entertaining a large party at P—— Castle—the Prince di ——, and Count Alphonso di ——, are among the distinguished visitors.
"The Earl of Effingham left Cowes, on Tuesday last, in his yacht, the 'Meteor,' for St. Petersburgh, where we understand it is his lordship's intention to winter."
"He be a shocking man," observed Mrs. Jorrocks, en parenthése, "such stories as Mr. Wilson have heard of him up in London. Go on please—I think you be half asleep this morning."
But Kate was now wide awake—so he was gone at last—Lady Desmond must hear it—all would be clear to her—she could no longer doubt! Miss Vernon took fresh courage, and began again:—
"A matrimonial alliance between the Marquis of ——, and the beautiful ——."
A loud ring.