He sat moodily brooding in his chair; and when Eleanor's persuasions ceased, he broke out-- 'That poor child!--After to-day's experiences,--to have Alice let loose upon her!--I would have given anything--anything!--that it should not have happened.' 'Miss Foster ?' said Eleanor lightly--'oh! she will bear up.' 'There it is!'-- said Manisty, in a sudden fury.

'We have all been misjudging her in the most extraordinary way! She is the most sensitive, tender-natured creature--I would not put an ounce more strain upon her for the world.' His aunt called him, and he went stormily away.

Eleanor's smile as she stood looking after him--how pale and strange it was!.