Junius Keswick was received by Miss Roberta in the parlor.

Her face was colder and sterner than he had ever seen it before, and his countenance was very much troubled.

Each wished to speak first, and ask questions, but the lady went immediately to the front.
"How did it happen that you and Mr Croft were coming here together?
Where had you been ?" "We came from the Green Sulphur Springs, where I called on him this morning." "I thought he was obliged to return immediately to the North.

What made him change his mind ?" "Perhaps it will be better not to discuss that now," said Junius.
"I wish to discuss it," was the reply.

"What induced him not to go ?" "I did," answered Junius, looking steadfastly at her.