Your lot in life is settled; you are to be Lady Arleigh of Beechgrove.'" "But," interposed Lady Peters, "it seems to me, Philippa, that this was all your mother's fancy.

Because you played together as children--because, when you were a child he called you his little wife--because your mother and his were dear friends, and liked the arrangement--it does not follow that he would like it, or that he would choose the playmate of his childhood as the love of his manhood.

In all that you have said to me, I see no evidence that he loves you, or that he considers himself in any way bound to you." "That is because you do not understand.

He has been in England only two days, yet, you see, he comes to visit me." "That may be for old friendship's sake," said Lady Peters.

"Oh, my darling, be careful! Do not give the love of your heart and soul for nothing." "It is given already," confessed the girl, "and can never be recalled, no matter what I get in return.