She was better for some weeks lately, but within the last few days the same attacks have returned, apparently accompanied with more suffering than ever.

It is altogether an inexplicable story." "Is there a story connected with her illness ?" "I have only heard imperfect reports of it; but it is said that she gave offence some eighteen months ago to an old woman who had held an office of trust in the family, and who, after some incoherent threats, disappeared.

This peculiar affection followed soon after.

But the strangest part of the story is its association with the loss of an antique mirror, which stood in her dressing-room, and of which she constantly made use." Here the speaker's voice sank to a whisper; and Cosmo, although his very soul sat listening in his ears, could hear no more.

He trembled too much to dare to address the ladies, even if it had been advisable to expose himself to their curiosity.