IN TWO CHAPTERS.—CHAPTER I.
'Is it very bad? Do you think it will mark her? How unfortunate I am.'
'Oh, it won't signify—much,' says the major, making a feeble attempt at consolation.
The groom is on his knees washing down the mare's leg. As he washes, the red raw patch shews out with ominous distinctness from the glossy dark-brown skin that surrounds it; and Cissy, standing in her riding-habit, whip in hand, regarding the operation, begins to look the very picture of ill-concealed misery.
'How dreadfully bad it looks now,' she says fearfully.
'Not at all,' replies the major.
'I cannot imagine how it happened; she is usually such a clean jumper,' goes on Cissy, diligently searching for excuses. 'I never in my life injured a mount before, and I would not have harmed this one for all the world. Captain Halkett will be so awfully angry.'
'Nonsense! You don't suppose he will bite you, do you? Think of his angelic temper and your privileges as a woman. He daren't blow you up, you know.'
'It is not so much that'—with hesitation. 'Of course I know he will say nothing, but he will think the more; and'——
'Like the parrot,' interrupts the major.