Her mistress tore it open and devoured its contents with one sweeping glance.
Instantly her face flushed a deep crimson, and she crushed the message hastily within her hand, while she began to drink her coffee, but seemed to become deeply absorbed in her own thoughts while doing so.
A few moments later she arose and dressed herself rapidly, but all the time appeared preoccupied and troubled about something.
"I believe I shall let Louis marry her if he wants to. I could settle the hundred thousand on him, and stipulate that they go West, or somewhere out of the State, to live. I believe I'll do it," she murmured once, while thus engaged, "that is, if—"
She did not finish the sentence, but, with a resolute step and air, went down to her breakfast.
She had no appetite, however, and after dallying at the table for half an hour or so, she went up stairs again and entered the sewing-room.
She found Mona busy at work upon the tea-gown—a beautiful robe of old-rose cashmere, made up with a lighter shade of heavy armure silk.
"Can you finish it in season?" she inquired.
"Oh, yes, easily. I have about an hour's more work to do upon it," the young girl answered.
"That is well, for I want you to go down town to do some shopping for me. I cannot attend to it, as I wish to keep fresh for my high-tea this afternoon," Mrs. Montague returned, flushing slightly. Then she added: "I will make out a list of what I need, and you may go as soon as the dress is done."