"No, I am not sick," Violet answered, with a heavy sigh; "and what could happen that you would not know about?"
"I know what I wish would happen," returned her sister, eagerly, "and what Lord Cameron wishes, too. He had eyes for no one but you to-night, and I must say I never saw you look so pretty before. Your dress is just exquisite, and it cost a heap of money, too; but that counts for nothing in comparison with the conquest you have made."
Violet could not fail to understand what all this meant. She flushed hotly, and nervously began to pull off her gloves.
Mrs. Mencke smiled at the blush; it was ominous for good, she thought.
"You comprehend, I perceive," she said, airily; "you know that you have captured a prize—that the Earl of Sutherland is ready and waiting to offer you a name and position such as does not fall to the lot of one girl in ten thousand."
"Nonsense, Belle! I wish you would not talk so to me about Lord Cameron," Violet petulantly exclaimed.
"It is not nonsense, child, for Vane Cameron has formally proposed for your hand in marriage—has asked Will's and my consent to win you if he can."
"Belle!"
Violet turned upon her sister, crimson to the roots of her hair, blank dismay written upon every feature of her fair face.
"It is true," Mrs. Mencke continued, "and it is wonderful luck for you. Just think, Violet, what it means to step into such a position! I am proud of your conquest."