That her sympathy was Lilla's was very clearly evident, but as the secrecy preserved towards Mrs.Hamilton had been made known to her by Emmeline, she had not written again on the subject, but yet Ellen was not deceived; in every letter she received she could easily penetrate where Lilla's anxious thoughts were wandering.

Of Cecil Grahame there were still no tidings, and, all circumstances considered, it did not seem strange she should often be sorrowful and anxious.

On dismissing this subject, Mrs.Hamilton had asked Ellen to sing to her, and selected, as a very old favourite, "The Graves of the Household." She had always forgotten it, she said, before, when Ellen wished her to select one she preferred.

She was surprised that Ellen had not reminded her of it, as it had once been an equal favourite with her.

For a moment Ellen hesitated, and then hastened to the piano.