You have called her a baggage and a lack-brain, and I know not what." "And you are he who taught me to speak the truth," she cried.

"Now I have spoken it, and yet I cannot please you.

Lack-brain she is, and lack-brain I shall call her." Such was a sample of the sudden janglings which marred the peace of that little class.

As the weeks passed, however, they became fewer and less violent, as Alleyne's firm and constant nature gained sway and influence over the Lady Maude.

And yet, sooth to say, there were times when he had to ask himself whether it was not the Lady Maude who was gaining sway and influence over him.