CHAPTER I.
_From Emmeline Hamilton to Mary Greville_.
London, January, 18-- At length, dearest Mary, I may write to you; at length indulge my long-controlled wishes.

My conscience has given me permission now, though I once thought I never could again.

We parted in August, and it is now January; and except during our little tour, you have not had one line from me, but very many more than one from Caroline and Ellen.

I used to wrong them, but I am glad I adhered to mamma's advice and my resolution, painful as it has been; for it did seem hard that I, who consider myself even more my dear Mary's own friend, should not address you when my sister and cousin did.

And now to explain this riddle, for though mamma has excused my silence to you, I am quite sure she has not told you the real truth.