The evening was somewhat
chilly; a bright fire burned in the grate, and the lamps were
lighted. Sir Harry sat down to his favorite game of chess with
Lady Helena; Lord Earle challenged Lady Laurence to a game at
ecarte. The young people were left to themselves.
"In twenty years' time," said Lionel to Lillian, "we may seek
refuge in cards; at present music and moonlight are preferable,
Lily. You never sing to me; come to the piano now."
But she remembered the dreaded hour was drawing near.
"Pray excuse me," she begged; "I will sing for you presently."
He looked surprised; it was the first time she had ever refused
him a favor.
"Shall we finish the folio of engravings?" he asked.
Knowing that, when once she was seated by his side, it would be
impossible to get away, she again declined; but this time the
fair face flushed, and the sweet eyes drooped.
"How guilty you look," he said. "Is there any mystery on hand?
Are you tired of me? Or is there to be another important
consultation over the wedding dresses?"
"I have something to attend to," she replied, evasively.
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