Lettice’s face worked convulsively. She caught hold of Nina, and for an instant they clung together.
“It has come,” whispered Nina. “Let us be good for her sake, Lettice darling.”
“Yes,” said Bertha, “she wants you all.”
“All,” repeated Nina; “but, oh, Bertha, think of poor Arthur!”
Chapter Two.
A New-Comer.
“Who was this gentleman-friend, and whence?”
Lavender Lady.
About ten days later, a sad little group was assembled in the pretty drawing-room of the Villa Martine. It was a lovely evening, but the sunshine outside was not reflected on the young faces of Lettice Morison and her brother and sister. Lotty and Auriol, the children of the family, were amusing themselves quietly enough on the balcony, though now and then a little laugh made itself heard from their direction, causing Lettice to look up with a slight frown of disapproval on her pale face.