'I came here to ask a favour--a very small favour, after all--and you might have accorded it without question or ridicule.' 'But which you never need have asked, Kate,' said the other gravely.

'You are the mistress here; I am but a very humble guest.

Your orders are obeyed, as they ought to be; my suggestions may be adopted now and then--partly in caprice, part compliment--but I know they have no permanence, no more take root here than--than myself.' 'Do not say that, my dearest Nina,' said Kate, as she threw herself on her neck and kissed her affectionately again and again.

'You are one of us, and we are all proud of it.

Come along with me, now, and tell me all that you advise.